Trustee for social horticulture project

What will you be doing?

Archbishop’s Park Community Trust (APCT) works to promote the conservation and improvement of Archbishop’s Park for the benefit of all users and neighbours. In particular it seeks to engage people who are at risk of social exclusion or who would enjoy and benefit from active engagement in nature connection activities through a weekly gardening club. In addition to the gardening club, the Trust raises funds for special projects to enhance the park, maintains an urban orchard and bee-hives (producing jams and honey), provides corporate team volunteering events, and liaises with Lambeth and neighbouring landowners to encourage joint commitment to the park as a key environmental, social and economic asset for all concerned. 

We are seeking another trustee to support our current team of four who oversee the management and administration of the charity. You may be new to this role but what is valuable is that our trustees have come from many walks of life and share an ability to appreciate their responsibilities as trustees and to act in the best interests of the charity.

What are we looking for?

In addition to the personal skills and qualities listed in the role description (attached), we particularly welcome applications from people who have a background in supporting adults who are isolated or vulnerable in some way. For example, you may have experience in mental health care, adult social care, occupational therapy or supporting those who are long-term unemployed. We want to improve our ability to reach more adults who would benefit from participating in our activities, and to keep abreast of developments in the field. You may also be a local resident, passionate about the local area and community. Other valuable skills include relationship building including with corporate organisations, and even practical skills such as woodworking ability!

Personal qualities:

• Willingness and ability to understand and accept their responsibilities and liabilities as  trustees and to act in the best interests of the organisation. 
• Ability to think creatively and strategically, exercise good, independent judgement and work effectively as a board member. 
• Effective communication skills and willingness to participate actively in discussion.  
• A strong personal commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion. 
• Enthusiasm for our stated aims. 
• Commitment to Nolan’s seven principles of public life: selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership. 

Experience:

• Knowledge and understanding of the local area is desirable.
• Knowledge and understanding of our client group is desirable.

What difference will you make?

Your role as a trustee will have a valuable impact in supporting the Trust to:

• Improve and enhance the local environment in a built-up, inner-city area.
• Create, maintain and improve biodiversity and wildlife habitat within the park.
• Support adults who might otherwise lack opportunities for nature connection in a welcoming and inclusive environment.
• Support adults to learn new skills and have new experiences.
• Support adults to create social connections within the gardening club, thus tackling isolation and loneliness.
• Support adults to improve their physical and mental wellbeing.
• Support APCT to continue to grow, develop and thrive.

Additional information

You can download the following documents:

Before you apply

Please submit a short statement explaining why you are interested in the role, and what skills, qualities and experience you have to offer. Please also submit your CV.