Our latest member of the Anna Chaplaincy network is independent nurse consultant and visiting fellow at Bournemouth University (at the National Centre for Post-Qualifying Social Work and Professional Practice), Karen Grimshaw. We are delighted to have her join our ranks.
'Since retiring from full-time employment,' Karen explains, 'I have been working over the past two years with Churches Together in Plymouth to develop a care home pastoral support scheme, with local churches supporting local care homes through regular pastoral visitors.
'I am involved in encouraging churches to focus on opportunities for mission and ministry for older people – both in their membership and community, including local care homes.
'I have recently worked with Bournemouth University and Faith in Later life, in writing a publication for churches and other Christian faith organisations, producing guidance on the support and value of older people – this focuses on those living in the Fourth Age and provides advice and guidance to churches on how to better include, involve and value older people.'
Devon
'I see the Anna Chaplaincy role as a great ambassador for ministry among older people – and am liaising with other folk in my local area, to take a county-wide approach to the development, training and commissioning of Anna Chaplains across Devon. The Anna Chaplaincy network is a great vehicle for communication, guidance, leadership and encouragement for this ministry.'
Karen's guidance, co-authored with Professor Keith Brown, director of the National Centre for Post-Qualifying Social Work and Professional Practice at Bournemouth University, is available here. Similarly, advice on Safeguarding Adults with which she has also been involved is also available to download here.