Senior Horticulture Practitioner (REC2013)

Around since 1923, SAMH is Scotland’s national mental health charity. We have represented the voice of people most affected by mental health problems in Scotland for over a 100 years. Today, in over 60 communities we work with adults and young people providing mental health social care support, services in primary care, schools and further education, among others.

These services together with our national programme work in respectme, suicide prevention and active living; inform our policy and campaign work to influence positive social change. SAMH is dedicated to mental health and wellbeing for all: with a vision of a society where people are able to live their lives fully, regardless of present or past circumstances.

• For Scotland’s Mental Health
• Post: Senior Horticulture Practitioner
• Ref: REC2013
• Location: Chrysalis
• Hours: 22.5/30 hrs per week
• Salary: £26,228 - £28,228 per annum (pro rata) (Salary point 19-23)
• *whilst this is a scale for progression, the starting salary is point 19
• Contract: Permanent

About the Role

Chrysalis supports mental health and wellbeing through structured gardening and outdoor activities. The program creates a nurturing, inclusive space for participants to develop horticultural knowledge, essential life skills, and personal resilience.

Led by an experienced team of horticultural professionals, Chrysalis offers small group sessions over a period of up to two years. Sessions are a blend of collaborative projects and individual learning paths, tailored to each participant’s abilities and interests. As individuals grow in confidence, they are supported in taking on greater responsibility and leadership roles.

This senior horticulture practitioner will provide direction and guidance to the horti team and participants.

What we are looking for

We are seeking a creative, enthusiastic and practical individual to join our small team.

The applicant will need to have a good knowledge of mental health illness and associated issues and be able to demonstrate an understanding of the difficulties faced by people with mental ill health.

You will need to have a working knowledge of horticulture and gardening and have experience in facilitating and leading groups.

Good communication and IT skills essential.

Horticultural qualification would be desirable.

Working week will be Monday-Thursday with very occasional weekend shifts when required.

What we will provide for you

You will work in a supportive environment and will be provided with a full induction and training opportunities. You will be given the chance to develop your knowledge and skills, as well as develop professionally.

Some of our benefits include;

• Reimbursement of PVG, Disclosure & SSSC annual fees and registration costs.
• Funded continuous learning and development opportunities,
• access to over 100 courses online in addition to classroom and virtual training sessions
• 30 days annual leave rising to 33 after 5 years’ service (pro rata)
• 4 public holidays (pro rata)
• 2 paid wellbeing days off per year to use on what matters to you (pro rata)
• Team wellbeing budgets
• Workplace pension scheme
• Life Assurance policy
• Employee Assistance Programme

Closing date for this post is 12 noon on Wednesday 26th August 2026.

Interviews will take place w/c 7th September 2026

This position is not eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship.

To apply and for further information please visit; https://www.samh.org.uk/information/work-with-us

PVG Scheme Membership, a Right to Work in the UK check and proof of any qualifications declared in your application will be required.

Applications are welcome from people who have experienced mental health difficulties.

Please note we reserve the right to close this vacancy early should we receive a high level of applicants and would encourage you to submit your application as early as possible.

SAMH Privacy Notice https://www.samh.org.uk/documents/Staff_Privacy_Notice_V2.0_.pdf

Pay: £26,228.00-£28,228.00 per year

Benefits:

• Additional leave
• Company pension
• Cycle to work scheme
• Enhanced maternity leave
• Life insurance
• Sick pay

Work Location: In person