About Company
Anchor’s Wellcroft House, part of the wider Anchor Hanover Group, is a highly respected residential care home nestled in the heart of Withington, Manchester. We are dedicated to providing exceptional, person-centred care to our residents, fostering an environment where comfort, dignity, and wellbeing are paramount. Our beautiful, expansive grounds play a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life for those who live with us, offering serene spaces for relaxation, gentle strolls, and engaging outdoor activities. We firmly believe that a meticulously maintained, vibrant outdoor environment contributes significantly to both the physical and mental health of our residents, providing a peaceful retreat and an inviting setting for their families and our dedicated team. As a community-focused organisation, deeply integrated into the Withington landscape, we are committed to making a positive difference every single day, with our outdoor spaces being a key part of this commitment.
Job Description
Are you passionate about horticulture and creating beautiful, safe outdoor spaces that bring joy and tranquility? Anchor’s Wellcroft House is seeking a dedicated and experienced Groundskeeper to join our Facilities team in Withington, Manchester. This pivotal role involves the comprehensive year-round maintenance and aesthetic enhancement of our extensive grounds, ensuring they consistently reflect the high standards of our care home and provide a welcoming, attractive, and accessible environment for our residents, their families, and staff. As our Groundskeeper, you will be responsible for a wide array of tasks, from precision lawn care, edging, and seasonal planting of flowers and shrubs, to expert hedge trimming and pruning. You will also meticulously maintain all pathways, patios, and outdoor furniture, ensuring they are clean, hazard-free, and in excellent repair. This role requires a proactive approach to weed and pest control using appropriate methods, as well as efficient management of green waste. You will operate and maintain various groundskeeping equipment safely and effectively, including mowers, strimmers, leaf blowers, and hedge trimmers, conducting routine checks and reporting any necessary repairs.
This isn’t merely a job; it’s a unique opportunity to contribute directly to the wellbeing and happiness of our residents. Your diligent efforts will provide lush, vibrant gardens for them to enjoy, safe and clear paths for their daily exercise and mobility, and picturesque views from their windows, enriching their daily lives. You will be instrumental in maintaining the natural beauty and structural integrity of Wellcroft House’s outdoor areas, reflecting our unwavering commitment to excellence in all facets of our operation. We are looking for an individual with a keen eye for detail, a proactive and self-motivated approach to work, and a genuine love for outdoor work and horticulture. The successful candidate will be comfortable using a range of groundskeeping equipment, possess a strong understanding of horticultural best practices, and adhere strictly to all health and safety guidelines to ensure the safety of themselves, residents, and visitors. If you thrive on transforming and maintaining landscapes, take immense pride in your craft, and are looking for a role where your dedication truly makes a tangible difference, we invite you to become a valued member of the Wellcroft House family, where your expertise in estate maintenance will be highly appreciated and celebrated. This role offers the chance to work in a supportive team environment, contributing to an organisation that genuinely cares for both its residents and its employees.
Key Responsibilities
- Perform all aspects of lawn maintenance, including mowing, edging, feeding, and weeding.
- Manage planting, pruning, and care of flowers, shrubs, and trees according to seasonal requirements.
- Undertake hedge trimming and shaping to maintain aesthetic appeal and clear boundaries.
- Ensure all pathways, patios, and hard surfaces are clean, free of debris, weeds, and safe for passage.
- Monitor and manage irrigation systems to ensure optimal plant health.
- Operate and maintain a variety of grounds maintenance equipment, ensuring safe usage and reporting any faults.
- Implement effective weed, pest, and disease control measures.
- Manage green waste, ensuring proper disposal and recycling where possible.
- Adhere to all health and safety regulations and company policies.
- Conduct regular inspections of the grounds to identify and address potential hazards or maintenance needs.
- Assist with seasonal tasks such as leaf clearing, gritting, and snow removal when necessary.
Required Skills
- Proven experience as a Groundskeeper or in a similar role within estate maintenance.
- Strong horticultural knowledge, including plant care, soil management, and pest control.
- Proficient in operating and maintaining various groundskeeping equipment (e.g., mowers, strimmers, hedge trimmers).
- Ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and prioritize tasks.
- Excellent attention to detail and a commitment to high standards of grounds presentation.
- Good understanding and adherence to health and safety regulations.
- Physical fitness and ability to perform demanding outdoor tasks in various weather conditions.
- A positive attitude and strong work ethic.
Preferred Qualifications
- Relevant horticultural qualification (e.g., NVQ Level 2 in Horticulture or similar).
- NPTC certifications (e.g., in pesticide application, chainsaw operation) if applicable to tasks.
- Experience working within a care home, school, or similar institutional environment.
- Full UK driving license.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary and pension scheme.
- Generous annual leave entitlement.
- Comprehensive training and development opportunities.
- Employee assistance programme for health and wellbeing.
- Cycle to Work Scheme.
- Discounts on a range of retail and leisure activities.
- A supportive and caring work environment.
How to Apply
If you are ready to make a significant impact and contribute to the beautiful environment of Anchor’s Wellcroft House, we would love to hear from you. Please click on the application link below to apply directly through our careers portal. Ensure your CV clearly highlights your relevant experience and skills.