Cumbria's first parish nurse

CONGRATULATIONS to Ruth McDonald, who is Cumbria’s first parish nurse.
Ruth will be based at the Emmanuel Community Church (ECC) and her main focus is on Central ward, although if required she will work with anyone in the borough.
A parish nurse is an experienced registered nurse, whose existing knowledge is supported by a specialist education program. Ruth will work alongside the ECC and local health providers, and she believes that spiritual health is central to a person’s wellbeing.
The parish nurse service is free for people of any faith or none at all. It is offered unconditionally and parish nurses will not put any pressure on people to join a church. Ruth will provide information on health care, both on a one-to-one basis or in a group and help you to understand your disease or condition. She will identify the need for and set up self-help support groups, take your blood pressure, check your weight and offer support and dietary advice. She will also refer you to your GP or other health professional as appropriate.
Ruth is also happy just to provide support and listen, or if requested, to offer prayers and discuss how health and faith are linked.
There are currently over 60 parish nurses working in the UK.
Ruth is an experienced registered nurse who works part-time as a clinical leader at Furness General Hospital.
You can contact Ruth through the ECC on 01229-431926. For more information on parish nurses, please visit http://www.parishnursing.co.uk/