Towell Building Trust Ltd Job Title: Grounds Maintenance Operative Responsible To: Support Services Manager Location: Towell House Residential Home, Belfast Contract Hours: 30 hours per week Rate: £16.61 Objective of the Home Towell House Residential Home is committed to creating a holistic, nurturing, and inclusive environment that delivers person-centred care of the highest quality. Every team member plays a vital role in this missionincluding the Grounds Maintenance Operative, whose work directly supports the physical and emotional wellbeing of residents by ensuring that all outdoor spaces are safe, beautiful, and accessible. General Responsibilities Under the guidance of the Support Services Manager, the Grounds Maintenance Operative is responsible for the upkeep and enhancement of the home's external environment. This includes gardens, pathways, and communal outdoor areas. The post holder must uphold the values of integrity, honesty, openness, accountability, and respect in all aspects of their work. They will contribute to a positive and welcoming atmosphere by: Maintaining high standards of cleanliness, safety, and presentation across all outdoor areas Supporting the orientation and integration of new staff by fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment Demonstrating vigilance in matters of health and safety, safeguarding, and resident welfare Participating in in-house training and professional development Following all home policies and procedures consistently and responsibly Actively participating in continuous service improvement initiatives Communicating effectively with colleagues, residents, and external contractors Key Responsibilities Maintain lawns, flower beds, shrubs, hedges, and trees to ensure a tidy and welcoming appearance Carry out seasonal tasks such as planting, pruning, leaf clearing, gritting, and snow/ice removal Ensure all outdoor areas are free from hazards and accessible to residents with varying mobility needs year round Operate and maintain groundskeeping equipment safely and efficiently (e.g., lawn mowers, strimmers, hedge trimmers) Liaise with activity department and prepare outdoor spaces for therapeutic, recreational, and social activities Provide support, encouragement and opportunities for residents who are keen to take up gardening or continue with their gardening interests Conduct minor repairs to outdoor fixtures including benches, fencing, signage, and lighting Monitor and report any safety concerns, damage, or maintenance needs to the Support Services Manager Uphold all health and safety policies, including appropriate use of PPE and safe working practices Maintain accurate records of work completed, inspections, and materials used Liaise with external contractors, suppliers, and service providers as directed Support sustainability efforts, including responsible waste disposal and eco-friendly practices Assist with internal moves or events requiring outdoor setup or logistical support Assist when required with: Performing and recording all weekly and monthly health and safety checks within the home General management of the fire alarm system and associated checks Any other duties determined by Senior Management Essential Criteria Proven experience in grounds maintenance, landscaping and horticulture Knowledge of safe operation and maintenance of gardening tools and machinery Understanding of seasonal plant care and basic horticultural principles Ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions Strong attention to detail and commitment to high standards of presentation Excellent communication and interpersonal skills Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team Physically fit and capable of manual handling and sustained outdoor work A valid UK driving license Must be resident in the UK with the legal right to work Desirable Attributes Formal training or certification in horticulture or groundskeeping Experience working in a care home or healthcare setting Enthusiasm for creating therapeutic and sensory garden spaces A supportive and caring attitude Willingness to contribute ideas for improving the outdoor environment PA1/PA6 weed spraying certification All employees of the Towell House Residential Home are legally responsible for all records held, created or used as part of their duties within the home to include resident, corporate and administration records whether paper-based or electronic. All such records are public and are accessible to the general public, with limited exceptions, under the Freedom of Information Act 2000, the Environmental Information Regulations 2004 and the Data Protection Act 1998. Employees are required to be up to date with the homes policy and procedures on records management and to seek advice if in doubt. This Job Description Will Be Subject to Review in The Light of Changing Circumstances and May Include Any Other Duties and Responsibilities as May Be Determined in Consultation with The Job Holder. It Is Not Intended to Be Rigid or Inflexible but Should Be Regarded as Providing Guidelines Within Which the Individual Works. CVs NOT ACCEPTED TOWELL HOUSE IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES EMPLOYER As Regulated Facility Applicants Should Be Aware an Enhanced Access Ni Check Is Required for This Post. Applicants Should Also Be Aware a Trace on Your Access Ni Check Does Not Necessarily Disbar from Employment. Each Case Is Assessed Individually. Towell House has a written policy on the Secure Handling, Use, Storage and Retention of Disclosure information. This is available on request from Towell House. The Towell Building Trust Ltd has a written policy on the recruitment of ex- offenders. This is available on request from Towell House. Skills: Grounds Maintenance Planting Pruning comunicatuon lone working Benefits: 5.6wks annual leave free parking paid breaks westfield health cash plan free uniform competitive rates of pay pension scheme