Spending time as a day volunteer at Lothlorien Community is an exciting opportunity to support a unique therapeutic community, which can offer personal growth, spending time in nature, developing practical skills and rewarding social connection.
Would you like to spend a spare weekday in a beautiful rural setting making a difference in people’s lives and the environment?
Lothlorien has developed an innovative alternative to mainstream approaches by providing the opportunity for people with mental health problems to develop their potential through living alongside people who are relatively well, in an atmosphere of friendship, acceptance and mutual support. We aim to break down the distinction which frequently exists between those seen as ‘well’ and those seen as ‘unwell.’ Volunteers play a key role in this process by helping to create a culture of mutual support which facilitates residents in developing their strengths and allows them to see themselves as having something to offer as well as having something to gain from community life.
Nestled in the rural heart of Dumfries and Galloway, near Corsock village. Day volunteers would join the community on a weekly, fortnightly or monthly basis. The community consists of residents, live-in volunteers, and staff. You could participate in a wide variety of daily tasks from domestic chores such as cooking and cleaning to working in the vegetable gardens and grounds.
It is not essential that volunteers have any special practical skills; however those who do are encouraged to use them in ways that benefit the community.
- What We’re Looking For:
- Kind-hearted and empathetic individuals.
- Good communication and interpersonal skills.
- Reliability and a commitment to regular visits.
- Adults over the age of 21.
- No prior experience needed – just a willingness to make a difference!
- Useful but not essential:
- Lived experience of a mental health issue.
- Gardening experience
- Clean drivers licence and confidence in driving the community’s vehicle.
We have a strong commitment to supporting volunteers to get the most out of the experience at Lothlorien through regular check-in’s and supervision sessions. PVG check’s are essential and basic training on Equality and Diversity and Adult Support and Protection are required through a free online portal. Travel expenses can be reimbursed so you’re not out of pocket.
How to Apply
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Complete an application form
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Informal chat over the phone
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Come and visit us for half a day
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Community consultation and feedback from yourself
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Decision on joining made collectively
You can download a printable application below:
Email: Outreach Coordinator | Lesley Atkins | lesley@lothlorien.tc
Telephone: 01644 440602 (Mon to Fri, 9am – 5pm)
What our volunteers have to say…
Morag
“The volunteer role at Lothlorien has been good for me. It is a special place and its core values appeal to me. From the beginning I have felt welcome and accepted. I enjoy spending time in a different sort of way; not work and not family. I like the hands-on immediate nature of the day-to-day work, and the chance to spend time with other people and new perspectives.”
Jill
“Volunteering at Lothlorien has given me the opportunity to give back to a community that has helped me so much in the past when I was very ill in my twenties. I enjoy the tranquil setting of the community , the gardens and woodland. Community members have a shared purpose of caring for the land and each other. I get the chance to share my interests such as yoga and creative ideas with the community and I enjoy learning new skills from others.”
Frequently Asked Questions…
What commitment are you expecting?
Ideally day volunteers can commit to the same day, every week or fortnight. Though variations on timings can be discussed. Longer term commitments are sought as induction, training, and PVG’s checks take time and energy.
What is the daily routine?
The daily routine for a volunteer involves joining the community from 11am during the week Monday to Thursday. We usually have a Qi gong or stretching session from 11:15-11:30. A garden or cooking work period runs from 11:30-1pm which we would ask you to join in various tasks alongside residents, other volunteers and staff. You are welcome to join in the community vegetarian lunch at 1pm. There is usually another work period from 2:30-4:30pm and that’s the end of the day.
Will I need any checks done?
All volunteers are required to go through enhanced criminal records disclosure through Disclosure Scotland.
What if I am not currently a UK resident?
Volunteers must have Right to Work in the UK.
Who can I speak to if I need more information?
Our friendly staff team would be happy to answer any questions you might have. Please call the office on 01644 440 602
We look forward to hearing from you!