Gardening Volunteer

Location: Derby

Closing date: 29 May 2026

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Here at Migrant Help, we support people seeking asylum in the UK. The small, yet lovely, garden is a place of sanctuary, where those we support can sit in the sun (or rain!) with their friends, learn new skills by taking care of the garden and get their hands dirty. It is a place for enjoyment, while also providing an opportunity to get involved in keeping our garden beautiful!

We rely on volunteers to keep our garden alive, and welcome new ideas. Growing fruit, veg and herbs is a great way for the people we support to get involved with food and gardening, make friends and keep busy!

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What you will do

• Bring ideas and horticultural knowledge to expand and grow our garden
• Run regular sessions with clients and provide guidance and support around gardening
• Actively involve clients in decision making (for example, what to grow, how the garden will look)
• Be empathetic and patient in sessions
• Provide words of encouragement and motivation to clients
• Report any safeguarding or confidentiality breach concerns to your volunteer supervisor as soon as possible

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What we expect from you

• Complete relevant induction and training provided by Migrant Help
• Undergo a criminal conviction check (DBS, PVG or Access NI)
• Commit to volunteering at agreed times
• Attend volunteer support sessions as required
• Complete feedback forms when required highlighting any growth opportunities and honestly communicating what is not working well
• Adhere to confidentiality and safeguarding procedures
• Uphold Migrant Help’s values
• Start volunteering at an agreed time and be punctual
• Complete all relevant documentation as required by volunteer coordinator
• Be open and understanding of different customs, values, and beliefs

​What you not be able to do

• Volunteer with us if you are under 18
• Exchange personal contact information with clients
• Buy gifts, food or lend or give/receive money to/from clients
• Carry out casework tasks, such as, complete benefits applications, liaise with local authorities or refer to other services or provide immigration advice
   

You will be an excellent candidate for this role if you

• Have a passion for gardening
• Are willing to work with diverse range of people
• Have non-judgmental and inclusive attitude
• Have a friendly and approachable nature
• Are reliable and punctual - the garden club is predominantly a social activity for our clients and it is important to have regular sessions.
• Are innovative and creative – we want our garden to be a place to relax but also provide our clients with herbs and food to use.
• Are patient and empathetic when listening to others
• Uphold personal values that are consistent with Migrant Help values of protection, diversity, equality, partnership, innovation, and excellence.
• Are a keen learner
• Have a good working knowledge of MS Office, and MS Teams platforms.

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You will benefit from volunteering with us by

• Adding volunteering experience to CVs and cover letters
• Reference to your future employer or educator
• Be a part of dedicated and inclusive service
• Develop new skills
• Greater awareness of immigration and asylum systems in the UK
• Reasonable Travel expenses reimbursed
• Regular check ins and supervision

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About Migrant Help

​Migrant Help is a leading charity that was established in 1963 and delivers a range of support and advice services to migrants across the UK. Our vision is for a global society that protects migrants, treats them with respect and enables them to reach their full potential.

We foster a culture in which equality, diversity and inclusion are recognised, valued and encouraged. It doesn’t matter who you are or where you come from, we match your skills with the needs of our organisation, as long as you share our values, vision and goals. We welcome applications from candidates regardless of their age, religion or belief, race, gender reassignment, disability, sexual orientation, sex, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity.

Migrant Help is committed to safeguarding those we provide a service to, applicants will have to undergo strict vetting procedures throughout different stages of the recruitment process.  

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How to apply

​To apply for this role, please click on the 'use this link to apply' button and complete the online application form.