Mental Health Forum

The Mental Health Forum meets regularly to support parish workers and clergy on issues of Mental Health.

The main focus of our work to date has been the publication of “1 in 4: Mental Health and your church”, an advice and support document which gives information and links to many mental health resources that we think will be useful in parishes’ work. It is available for download on the Chester Diocese web site. We will really appreciate your comments as to its usefulness: these will give first hand information for future editions.

	Ken Lewis - Chair of the Forum I was Chartered as a Counselling and Occupational Psychologist. When I left school I became and apprentice in the motor industry, in my early 20’s I trained as youth worker and after 8 years trained as a counsellor, from there I progressed to becoming a psychologist. The last 10 years of my employment were as the Programme Leader in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy at the University of Chester. I am a member of the Forum because I think the church is beginning think about the message of the Good News and Mental Health and I would like to be part of how this is worked out. I am a member of St Michaels in Newton, Chester and occasionally attend the Cathedral. I enjoy motorcycling, sailing and jazz.
	Dr Patricia Berry I have been a GP all my life working in the Stockport area. I retired from my practice 4 years ago & now work part-time as a locum; 3 cruises per year working as a ship’s doctor; appraising GP’s as well being an examiner for the Royal College of GPs. I am an active member of St Cuthberts Cheadle where I do all sorts of things especially helping with “Messy Church” I am married to John & we especially like helping with our 3 grand children. I enjoy gardening, playing the piano & bridge (not very well).
	Revd Dr Philip Goggin Currently Vicar of St Peter’s Church, Leighton-cum-Minshull Vernon, near Crewe, I have previously been a school teacher and university lecturer. I have always had an interest in holistic aspects of health, have run courses on personal self-management, and presented talks on theology and healing. In the parish we provide a monthly support group for folks with depression, and we are currently in partnership with a local charity to promote wellbeing in the community. I have worked as a hospital chaplain. Email gail.philip@virgin.net or Tel 01270 522213
	Keith Ineson Leads the Agricultural Chaplaincy team for Churches Together In Cheshire. Has been chaplain for 11 years and before that worked in farming and the general business world. Made a Canon of Chester Cathedral in 2010. Serves on various government bodies advising on farming issues.
	Revd Ron Iveson
	Ted Jones and Jill Wright Ted and Jill are currently both Readers at Christ Church Higher Bebington. They entered Reader training after retiring from full time paid employment; Ted was employed in the motor trade while Jill was a careers officer in Local Government. Ted has a particular involvement with the Pastoral Visiting Team, bereavement support and Listening Service. Jill has trained to conduct funerals which she finds a most fulfilling aspect of her ministry. Both Ted and Jill share a particular interest in mental health issues; both having had some personal experience themselves. They have been running a mental health support group at Christ Church since January 2010, aimed mainly at anyone needing help with anxiety or depression. The group meets every month in the church community centre. Anyone wishing to contact Ted or Jill can do so via the Parish Office at Christ Church. Email parishoffice.hrb@btconnect.com or Tel: 0151 608 4429
	Head of Chester Diocesan Counselling Services – Jane Knight Jane is a professional counsellor and co-ordinates the counselling service and provides help, advice and consultancy for clergy and lay workers in pastoral situations, especially with regard to mental health issues. Jane is also keen to promote and develop a range of strategies for clergy and their families to promote good mental health and well being. She lives with her family in Willaston and worships at St Mary’s in Nantwich. Email: jane.knight@chester.anglican.org or Tel: 01270 652034 / 07918 732806