Helen Martin - CSW at HMS NELSON

Back in 1979 I joined the Queen Alexandra's Royal Naval Nursing Service for a nine-year tenure, most of which I served at the Royal Naval Hospital Haslar. In 1982 I became a Christian and got very involved with RSR. The Centre at Rowner, 'Aggies' as we endearingly called it, became a 'home from home' until 1987, when I married Steve, who is now a Warrant Officer and currently serving at sea on HMS CHATHAM. RSR was a particularly special place to us during our engagement, so it seemed the most natural choice for me to stay at the Rowner centre the night before our wedding, along with my Chief Bridesmaid and parents!

A few months ago, I had been wondering how or if, my experience as a Naval Nurse would ever be put to use in the future. Within a couple of weeks, the position for a CSW placement at RH Haslar & Fort Blockhouse was brought to my attention, and both Steve and I felt it would be wrong for me not to apply. Right from the start we felt the Lord's guidance and each day I consider it a privilege to be in the position that I am now in.

Working within the existing Chaplaincy team, headed up by Revd. John Hill RN, my work is mainly focused on providing a 'Chaplaincy' presence on the wards, offering support and a listening ear to both patients and staff, military and civilian. More often than not the majority of patients are admitted for a relatively short period, so it can be difficult to build relationships. However, opportunities do arise to give an encouraging word, or pray with someone who feels in particular need and I consider these to be precious moments.

I have also been really blessed with an office that is situated within the main part of the hospital, and in a fairly busy corridor. This is particularly advantageous because St Luke's Church and the Chaplaincy offices, although in the grounds of the hospital, are separate from the main building. So I trust that in time, staff will know where and when to find me and feel free to pop in for a chat and cuppa!

Needless to say, there have been many changes, since I last worked at RH Haslar, and these continue as the military gradually withdraws. Even though great effort is made to keep everyone informed of the impending changes, your prayers would be greatly valued, for all the staff, medical and non-medical, and those they continue to serve, in the Forces and the local community, whilst they also cope with the uncertainty of the future.