Position Description: Therapeutic Horticulture Program Facilitator for Dementia Residents in Aged Care
Position: Therapeutic Horticulture Program Facilitator
Location: Memory Support Unit within Aged Care homes
Contract Type: Subcontractor to Soil to Supper
Reports to: Cath Manuel, Director
About Us: Soil to Supper is a leading provider of Therapeutic Horticulture programs and services designed to promote good health and wellness through gardening.
We specialise in offering engaging and meaningful garden-based programs for aged care residents, NDIS participants and community organisations.
Our aim is to make gardening accessible for everyone and focus on physical, mental, emotional and social wellbeing. We enrich the lives of individuals through the therapeutic benefits of growing meaningful connections, accessing garden spaces and connecting with nature.
Role Overview: The Therapeutic Horticulture Facilitator delivers weekly garden-based activities to dementia residents in aged care facilities.
Program Facilitators play a crucial role in enhancing the wellbeing and quality of life for these individuals through meaningful activities.
Expertise in both horticulture and aged care will contribute to creating a nurturing and empowering environment for participants.
Key Responsibilities:
- Deliver weekly activities following Soil to Supper’s Seasonal Gardening Program, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
- Create a supportive and inclusive atmosphere that encourages active participation and engagement among participants.
- Lead group sessions, providing clear instructions and guidance for gardening activities that align with therapeutic goals.
- Utilise therapeutic horticulture techniques to promote relaxation, sensory stimulation, cognitive stimulation, and emotional wellbeing.
- Foster a sense of community and social interaction among participants, promoting a positive group dynamic.
- Communicate with staff of memory support unit before, during and after weekly sessions to monitor and record participants’ progress, gather feedback and communicate feedback with the Director.
- Ensure all gardening equipment, tools, and materials are prepared for each session.
- Gather materials as required from local stores, using Soil to Supper account and forward receipts to Soil to Supper accounts team.
- Maintain records of program attendance, participant feedback, and any notable observations.
- Adhere to Soil to Supper’s values, guidelines, and protocols while representing our organisation in a professional manner.
Qualifications and Experience Required:
- Strong knowledge of horticulture, with a focus on therapeutic applications of gardening.
- Qualifications in horticulture, allied health or healthcare are desirable.
- Experience working in an aged care setting.
- Experience working with individuals with dementia is preferable.
- Complete Professional Development in Dementia Support where required.
- Knowledge of dementia-related challenges and an understanding of person-centered care approaches.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to connect with individuals at varying cognitive levels.
- Empathy, patience, and a genuine passion for supporting and enhancing the lives of others.
- Proven ability to deliver group-based activities.
- Reliable and well-organised, with the ability to prepare and deliver activities effectively.
- Flexible schedule to accommodate weekly program sessions.
- Have current ABN.
- Have current public liability and professional indemnity insurance.
Benefits of the position:
- Opportunity to make a positive impact on the wellbeing of dementia residents and contribute to their quality of life.
- Be part of a unique, dynamic and passionate team committed to enhancing health and wellness within the community.
- Compensation as per subcontract agreement with Soil to Supper.
If you are a dedicated therapeutic horticulture facilitator with a heart for improving the lives of dementia residents through the Growing Together Program, we invite you to join our passionate team.
Apply now by sending your resume and references to Cath Manuel – [email protected].
Find out more about Therapeutic Horticulture – https://soiltosupper.com/therapeutic-horticulture/
Soil to Supper is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage applications from individuals of diverse backgrounds and experiences.
Please note that this position description outlines the general nature and level of responsibilities and qualifications for this role. Responsibilities, skills, duties, requirements, and working conditions may change as needed.