Kim Lennard has been appointed as the new Bishop’s Adviser in Pastoral Care and Counselling, following the retirement of David Mair.
Kim is a psychotherapist and describes herself as having an integrative and holistic approach to her work. She has had her own private practice since 2018 and has also held paid employment roles and worked on a voluntary basis in a number of sectors. Kim has previously worked for West Midlands Police, firstly as a HR Manager, then as an Employee Support Manager.
Kim said: “When I saw the Bishop’s Adviser role advertised, I felt the job description and person specification were relevant to my skill-set and previous experience in HR and counselling. The role has an element of overseeing and co-ordination of the service, as well as providing counselling”.
One of Kim’s priorities will be to ensure that the Diocese has access to a network of counsellors with a range of skills, who can be accessible to all parts of the Diocese.
Kim is passionate about the need to provide clergy and their families with the support they may need, whether this be in the form of counselling or pastoral care. Kim appreciates how important it is for the counselling service to be approachable but to also be separate from the organisation and to retain the strictest of confidence so clergy and their families can feel safe in the knowledge that whatever is brought into the therapy space is contained there.
Kim explained: “I do have some understanding of the demands of the role of clergy. I have an uncle who is a retired Anglican parish priest. I know that sometimes achieving an appropriate work/life balance is difficult when you feel the need to be always available. Despite being surrounded by people most of the time, clergy can often feel isolated and lonely. I am hoping that I shall be able to meet with clergy to further develop my understanding of the demands placed on them. I am confident that my experience with supporting police officers and staff along with my experience in different sectors has made me sensitive to the challenges faced daily by individuals.”
The Diocesan counselling service is designed to be delivered independently, so not part of the Diocesan management structure. Initial enquiries should be made to Kim, and she will then work with colleagues to find the best support for their personal situation.
Kim continued: “I enjoy meeting people and hearing their stories. I am very excited about the possibilities offered by this role, and I hope to be able to visit many of you to improve my understanding of your ministry. I have been very impressed by the support and encouragement I have already received from Bishop Martin, Archdeacon Mark Badger, the Bishop’s Chaplain, and others. I am really looking forward to working with Bishop Hugh Nelson, who I believe will share my passion for supporting clergy and their families as they navigate the challenges they face on a daily basis.”
Kim can be contacted on 07305 269960 or email klennard@cofe-worcester.org.uk
