We are a small charity that supports military and emergency service veterans who struggle with mental and physical health problems. The therapy team work in a garden site in Dundee. Management functions are carried out by 5 trustees who work from home but are encouraged to drop into the garden to chat with therapists and veterans. We are looking for a trustee to join this management team. Time commitment is up to the individual, their availability and particular skills. Salary and account functions are carried out by the auditors. A background in management, finance, mental health, horticulture, the public sector, human resources or the military would be useful. The charity has a good record of success helping veterans and a sound reputation for administration.

Who we are

The charity aims to help veterans recover their health to a level that enables them to return to work, further education/training or an acceptable level of independent living. Staff also collaborate with a range of local support agencies to address problems such as

finance, housing, mobility limitations, abuse, employment, training and physical health. Staff have created a dedicated therapeutic space where veterans feel safe and are able to engage in a wide range of activities to suit individual needs and abilities. The site is run by 3 qualified staff aided by a gardener. The charity is comfortable supporting 16 veterans and their families at any one time.

Beneficiaries

All beneficiaries engage voluntarily. Most are slow to seek support and need help to understand their problems. Some have a history of substance abuse and require the help of primary care GP services. A fear of crowded places can stop veterans attending crucial medical appointments so that they fall through the safety net provided by the NHS. Social isolation is common. Aided by the therapy team, veterans are encouraged to complete any NHS treatments offered, reconnect with family, friends and community and make new friends in the garden. Former beneficiaries can return for further support if needed.

Our search

Three DTG trustees have been with the charity since it began in 2016. We are looking for a new trustee to inject fresh ideas and up to date skills. We have recently been joined by a volunteer administrator and a volunteer fundraiser. Both have a range of management experience. They have persuaded us to upgrade our IT systems to enhance security, enable remote access and set up role specific email accounts. We have a strong, well qualified team running the Garden and want to ensure that the management team continues to have the right strengths and skills to support them.