Gardener – Care Homes (Across Two Sites)
The Bridge Care Home, Brunel Way, Dartford DA1 5FW & Groveland Park Care Home, Bexleyheath DA7 6EF
Job Purpose
We are seeking a reliable and hardworking Gardener to maintain and enhance the outdoor spaces across two care homes. The successful candidate will ensure the gardens and grounds are safe, tidy, attractive, and enjoyable for residents, visitors, and staff throughout the year.
Key Responsibilities
- Maintain gardens, lawns, flower beds, hedges, pathways, and outdoor communal areas across both care home sites.
- Carry out regular mowing, pruning, weeding, planting, watering, and seasonal garden maintenance.
- Create and maintain seasonal borders, bulbs, planters, and displays to ensure colour and interest throughout the year.
- Plan and rotate seasonal planting schemes suitable for care home environments.
- Ensure outdoor areas are safe, clean, and free from hazards.
- Maintain patios, driveways, fencing, and garden furniture where required.
- Monitor and maintain gardening equipment and tools, reporting any faults or repairs needed.
- Support the creation of welcoming and sensory outdoor environments for residents.
- Assist with seasonal projects and improvements to the grounds.
- Dispose of garden waste appropriately and maintain cleanliness standards.
- Travel regularly between both care home locations as required.
- Follow health and safety procedures at all times, including safe use of machinery and chemicals.
Person SpecificationEssential
- Previous gardening or grounds maintenance experience.
- Knowledge of plants, lawn care, and seasonal gardening tasks.
- Experience creating seasonal planting displays and maintaining year-round colour.
- Must be able to drive and hold a valid UK driving licence.
- Ability to work independently and manage workload across two sites.
- Good physical fitness and ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
- Reliable, punctual, and organised.
- Friendly and respectful approach when working around elderly residents and staff.
Desirable
- Experience working within care homes, schools, or similar environments.
- PA1/PA6 spraying certificates or horticultural qualifications.
- Basic DIY or maintenance skills.
What We Offer
- Supportive working environment
- Uniform and equipment provided
- Opportunities for training and development
- Pension scheme
- Holiday entitlement
Safeguarding
This role may be subject to an enhanced DBS check. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable adults.
Pay: £16.77 per hour
Expected hours: 40.0 per week
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Discounted or free food
- Health & wellbeing programme
- Private medical insurance
Experience:
- Gardening/ horticultural : 5 years (required)
Work Location: In person
