Where does Parish Nursing fit in? Sue Evans MBE Parish Nurse Burwell, Cambs Co – ordinator Eastern Area

What is Parish Nursing? The intentional integration of the practice of faith with the practice of nursing so that people can achieve wholeness in, with and through the community of faith in which parish nurses serve. It is rooted in Christian faith; some other faiths have similar ministries with different titles. Began in Chicago in 1986 with six pilot nurses, now over 12,000 Parish Nurses in 23 countries.

What does that mean? Churches of all denominations in Britain appointing registered nurses with community experience to promote whole person health care in their local communities.

What is a Parish Nurse? A currently-registered nurse with community experience, a practising Christian faith, and some theological understanding. Has undertaken the International Parish Nurse Basic preparation course (available in UK three times a year) Works with and through the local church, developing and leading a volunteer health ministry team May practice in a voluntary or paid capacity Identifies needs, and serves the local community, with respect for people of all faiths and none. Mobilises and trains volunteers for health improvement activities

Roles of a Parish Nurse Health Educator Personal Health Adviser Referral agent Trainer & Co-ordinator of Volunteers Developer of Support Groups Health Advocate Integrator of Faith & Health

Spiritual care begins with encouraging human contact in compassionate relationship, and moves in whatever direction need requires. Spiritual Care Matters (2009)

Who is this person? ? What’s happening in their lives? What is meaningful to them?

Ministry of Messy Moments I meet people in streets, on buses, in hospital wards & school corridors, in sunshine, wind, rain in homes & halls…..the Ministry of Messy Moments……. …… each failure, avoidable or unavoidable, of the natural local group in house and street to act as early diagnosers, home helps, good mothers, hygienic food providers, wet bed changers, absorbers of neurotic & psychotic behaviour, and in many other ways, means an area of medical service surrendered which has to be covered by someone else. Gammack (2000)

So, where does the Parish Nurse fit in? Church GP Surgery Hospital School Community Work Family

David & Anita Cleaner Alzheimers UK Gardener Care & Repair Soc Services ICER Meals on Wheels Benefits Necklace Alarm Church Congregation

Burwell Drop-In Increasing number of people with memory problems/ dementia Many living alone or Carer stress Work with other agencies Ordinary “ Good Neighbours” can help Involve congregation to help but also educate them. Encourage “ look out” for each other

My friend S Diagnosed with breast cancer Wanted to discuss what this could mean Unfortunately several operations Found support at hospital patchy GP surgery left out Family also need support Support until end of treatment & beyond

Integrator of Faith & Health All Souls, Carers & Aids Day services Bereavement support Home Communion Prayer Shawl ministry Permission to pray Keeping the housebound in touch Doing it all with love

So where DOES the PN fit in? Alongside the patient & their family, within their community Able to give time AND long term support Not “pinching” anyone else's job, enhancing NHS care available Encouraging volunteers to take the opportunities coming with the “Big Society”. Making the most of those “ Messy Moments”!

Any Questions? ?

Thank you

References Gammack,G.(2000) Contact 132, Spiritual Care Matters (2009) An Introductory Resource for All NHS Scotland Staff. NHS Education for Scotland