Previous history
I was previously lead chaplain at the hospital from 2001 to 2018. I then retired and returned part-time, to continue to practice in a senior role particularly as bereavement follow up service lead.
I trained for the baptist ministry at Glasgow University and the Scottish Baptist College, completing a BD joint honours degree in 1977. I was the minister of Crown Terrace baptist church, Aberdeen from 1977 to 1983 and was senior minister of Croxley Green and Sarratt baptist churches in Hertfordshire from 1983 to 1994. During this time I successfully completed doctoral studies in the field of Old Testament studies at Glasgow University in 1988.
I was one of the senior chaplains at the Leeds Teaching Hospitals Trust from 1994 to 2001.
Membership and accreditations
Alongside my chaplaincy involvement, I have a particular interest in bereavement issues and developed practice with the creation of the unique bereavement care follow up service.
My other responsibilities include:
- Affiliated lecturer, faculty of clinical medicine, University of Cambridge.
- Senior Associate in the Cambridge Theological Federation, actively involved in developing new patterns of pastoral care and teaching on the MA programme
- Chaired the UK board for healthcare chaplaincy from its inception to 2017 and continue as its academic lead officer
- Professional adviser for chaplaincy posts and appointments.
- Member of the editorial board of practical theology journal.
- Independent assessor of the human tissue authority.
Publications
I have co-written 'The Chaplaincy Volunteers Training Resource' which is used as a resource nationally.
I produced 'In search of Wholeness: A Christian Theology of Healing and Practical Training for Church and Medical Settings' together with Russ Parker.
Personal interests
I am married to Valerie and we have seven children and five grandchildren between us and enjoy gardening and walking, especially in Scotland.