Buddy Volunteers for Ecotherapy

FOREST FARM PEACE GARDEN is recruiting Buddy Volunteers for their ecotherapy program in Ilford, UK. Volunteers will undergo two days of in-person training and some online learning. Responsibilities include providing support, informal befriending, and assisting with garden tasks to help individuals with mental health recovery. Volunteers must commit to attending training and volunteering on Wednesdays or Fridays at least once a month.
WE ARE NOW RECRUITING FOR NEW BUDDY VOLUNTEERSThe Buddy Training is a two day in person training combined with some online learning to be completed at your own time.
Next training sessions will be on 9 & 23 MAY 2025

Volunteers are at the heart of what we do and make a huge difference to the people that we support. Becoming a buddy is an opportunity to gain skills and hands-on experience in support work and social and therapeutic gardening.

Our ecotherapy programme supports people with mental health recovery needs such as depression, anxiety and isolation. Buddies help to create a friendly and welcoming environment, enabling everyone to participate fully.

Buddy volunteers provide informal befriending, support with garden tasks and help with the general running of garden sessions.

If you are interested in becoming a buddy volunteer, please read the role description below and send in your application.

Buddy Volunteer Role Description

2025 Buddy Volunteer Application Form

You must be available to attend the training days and be able to volunteer in the garden on either a Wednesday or a Friday, on our ecotherapy garden days , at least once per month. Once we receive you application you will be sent more details about the online and in person training.

After completing the training, buddies are required to undertake an enhanced DBS check arranged by FFPG. Please let us now if you have any concerns about this.