Job overview

Help us transform our hospital grounds into a living prescription for health! We are looking for passionate individuals to join our mission of establishing therapeutic green spaces as vital healthcare infrastructure. As a Nature Recovery Support Volunteer, you won’t just be gardening; you’ll be building a sanctuary for patients, staff, and local wildlife.

Our 2025 staff data shows that while 73% of hospital staff value green spaces, very few currently use them for patient care. By joining us, you bridge this gap. You will ensure our sensory gardens and nature trails are not only beautiful but accessible and clinically integrated, providing a therapeutic environment that aids recovery and boosts wellbeing.

Main duties of the job

• Therapeutic Stewardship: Caring for sensory planting areas (scented, textured, and seasonal plants) designed specifically for patient needs.
• Nature Recovery: Maintaining habitats like wildflower meadows, hedgerows, and ponds.
• Citizen Science: Using apps like iNaturalist and Merlin Bird ID to record biodiversity and strengthen the Trust’s evidence base.
• Award-Winning Impact: Assisting with preparations for the Green Flag Award and supporting community BioBlitz events.
• Future Growth: Getting involved in upcoming therapeutic food-growing projects and potager-style demonstration gardens.

Working for our organisation

At Newcastle Hospitals Charity our goal is to make a positive impact at Newcastle Hospitals. We proudly support staff, patients and the wider community of the hospitals, and fund a range of initiatives – from cutting edge cancer research, to innovative medical equipment and ward refurbishments.

Important note on completion of the application form

REFERENCES: Candidates are required to provide the address, telephone number and work email address of at least TWO referees, who should be either a current or former employer, senior work colleague, teacher, tutor or person of good standing in the community, and certify that they have known you for a minimum of 3 years prior to the date of application.  PLEASE NOTE: That we cannot accept references from Friends or Family members and must request professional email addresses to contact referees.

EMAIL: All correspondence to you will be made via email, therefore please ensure that you check your SPAM folders as well as your inbox.