Gardener/Assistant Warden

Royal Benevolent and Educational Fund for Watermen and Lightermen

Hastings Almshouses

Gardener / Assistant Warden

INTRODUCTION

The following job specification is an outline on what is expected of the holder as a gardener and assistant to the Warden. Due to the varied nature of the position it is impossible to cover all duties expected of the employee. The employee is accountable at all times for the proper discharge of his responsibilities to the Company of Watermen and

Lightermen’s Almshouse and Charities Committee. The immediate day-to-day supervisor is the Warden of The Watermen’s Charities Almshouses. By the nature of the job, the majority of the duties come under the heading of Practical, however some administrative duties are also necessary.

Practical i. Keep grass cut to reasonable height throughout the growing season. At the end of each day all cutting machinery should be cleaned and checked for wear and tear and suitability for further use. ii. Maintain rose and flower beds by keeping clean and tidy, cutting back any dead wood or shrubs that are needed on an annual basis. iii. Ensure the drive and footpaths are clear of debris. iv. The perimeter fencing is made up of various shrubs and bushes. This should be kept neat and tidy by cutting at regular intervals. v. Carry out work required for the proper upkeep of gutters, drains and sewers on the various properties around the site. vi. Keep all of the Charities machinery in good working order by the way of regular checks and servicing. vii. In conjunction with the Warden carry out any property maintenance that is necessary. viii. If any resident is unable to look after their own flower beds situated around their property, ensure that it is not detrimental to the aesthetics of the Homes by keeping neat and tidy, which may entail seeding with grass. ix. Assist with community hall alarm system testing (Lifeline, burglar and fire). x. Assist with providing cover for the Warden and cleaner’s annual leave and sickness.

xi. Assist with water tank testing. xii. Assist with erecting annual community hall decorations. xiii. Assist with function organization (i.e. Court visits, funeral services, social club events etc). xiv. Within reason the Warden may delegate any of his duties of maintenance to the homes. xv. The Trustees, through the Clerk and Warden, may from time to time require other reasonable duties to be performed for the benefit of the Charity.

Administrative i. Report to the Warden any defective machinery. ii. Observe all Health and Safety precautions including keeping a record of any accidents that occur and ensure the Warden is made fully aware of injuries. iii. Report anything that is in his/her opinion dangerous or untoward in or around

Watermen’s Close. iv. Ensure that all machinery is maintained, either by themselves or by an authorized specialist. v. Keep accurate records of events to enable the Warden to report to the Trustees. vi. Liaise with trades visiting to carry out work on site. vii. Deal with or direct to the Warden telephone and email enquiries. viii. Handle or direct to the Warden resident enquiries.

CONCLUSION

The Gardener / Assistant Warden is employed by the Trustees to ensure that the Charity’s property is well looked after for the benefit of not only the present residents but also those who follow them. Whilst the manner of the job entails working in close proximity to elderly people, thought must be given to the human relationships to ensure the happiness of the residents living within the Homes. The employee must have respect for resident’s confidences and for their individuality.

Job Type: Full-time

Salary: £20,000.00-£23,000.00 per year

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday
• Weekend availability

Work Location: One location

Application deadline: 19/02/2023
Expected start date: 28/02/2023