“Volunteering at Lothlorien is a great opportunity to enjoy regular communal meals, gardening, crafting, singing and living together in quiet and peaceful location.”
Would you like to live in a welcoming and supportive working community in the beautiful Scottish countryside?
Volunteering with us
Volunteering at Lothlorien offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a therapeutic community focused on mutual support, organic gardening, nature therapy, sustainability, and healthy living.
Perhaps you’re seeking a change of scenery? Exploring a new chapter in life? Curious about horticulture therapy and community living? Lothlorien provides a supportive environment where you can flourish and discover new possibilities.
At Lothlorien, we offer an innovative alternative to mainstream approaches, providing individuals facing mental health challenges the opportunity to develop their potential in an environment of friendship, acceptance, and mutual support. By living alongside those who are relatively well, we create a dynamic, supportive community for everyone involved.
“As you grow into the role various things that need done in the community will become apparent i.e. gardening, woodwork, cooking, planning trips out. It is likely you will develop your own way of doing all these things and your own way of really helping others.”
We aim to break down the distinction between those seen as “well” and “unwell.” Volunteers are crucial in creating a culture of mutual support, helping residents develop their strengths and see their value in the community. At Lothlorien, volunteers live on-site and participate in daily tasks, from cooking and cleaning to working in the vegetable gardens and grounds. Special practical skills are not essential, but those who have them are encouraged to contribute in ways that benefit the community.
While distinctions between volunteers and residents are minimized, volunteers play a key role in fostering a positive atmosphere. Their presence and example encourage everyone to participate to the best of their ability, enriching our community with fresh energy and perspectives.
If you’re passionate about being a part of a supportive and healing environment, we welcome you to join us and share your skills and insights, and to be a part of our community’s growth and well-being.
What you could gain from volunteering with us
Volunteering at Lothlorien is a wonderful opportunity for personal growth. It offers hands-on experience for those aiming to enter professional training in fields like mental health or therapeutic horticulture. It can also be a valuable post-qualification experience for those who have completed their training. Additionally, it’s a perfect chance for anyone looking to take a new direction in life.
What do our volunteers have to say?
Johannes’ Story
David’s Story
Lynda’s Story
Who we are looking for:
In selecting volunteers, we are looking for people who are:
- concerned for others: able to take an active interest in the welfare of others
- open-minded: willing to respect everyone in the community for who they are
- enthusiastic: have a positive attitude
- emotionally resilient : able to look after own wellbeing and mental health
- responsible: can support the community’s values, as well as its structures and routines
- open to learning: being prepared to look at one’s own values and ways of relating to others
FAQ’s
What are the living arrangements?
You will receive free board and your own private single room. The bathrooms, kitchens and communal living spaces are shared
Will I be provided meals?
Meals from Monday-Friday are made and shared with the community. Out with these times, you can help yourself to food items in the pantries.
What are the time commitments?
Ideally volunteers can commit to a minimum of 6 months to ensure continuity and stability within the community but we can sometimes consider less e.g. 3 months.
What age do I need to be to volunteer at Lothlorien?
We welcome applications from people of all ages over 21. We like to have a mixture of ages in the volunteer team and we have had people ranging from their early 20s to late 60s.
What is the daily routine like?
Each day is different at Lothlorien, we follow a programme of activities though the day and there is no set routine over the weekends. There is no set routine over the weekends and plenty of free time to enjoy leisure activities and relax. Whilst we recognise that everyone needs time on their own, it is expected that volunteers will want to spend some time with the community in leisure as well as work times.
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.
What is the application process?
If you are interested in joining the community, the first step is to complete an application form. If Lothlorien seems a good fit, we then arrange a visit which will enable both you and the Community to see if Lothlorien is the right place. After the visit there is a community consultation and everyone is involved in the decision to invite new volunteers to join.
Can I visit before I apply?
Please do not turn up at the premises before being invited as this can be unsettling for community members. We try to respect the privacy of our residents’ home life.
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
How do I apply?
You can download the application form below or alternatively, contact us and we can send an application form out to you.
Email: Manager Lucy Morgan lucy@lothlorien.tc
Telephone: 01644 440602 (Mon to Fri, 9am – 5pm)
We look forward to hearing from you!