Sherwood Forest Hospitals Foundation Trust has announced the appointment of a new lead chaplain.

Ruth Lambert took over the role on 2 March, replacing John Wood who left to become chaplain at John Eastwood Hospice.

As lead chaplain, Ruth is responsible for the Trust’s chaplaincy team, who provide pastoral, spiritual and religious needs and support to staff, patients, relatives and visitors of all faiths and none. Ruth also manages the Trust’s bereavement centre team, who support and advise people on what they need to do after a death.

Ruth was previously senior chaplain and team leader at Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust in central London, and brings with her a wealth of chaplaincy experience. Her husband Malcolm is the new vicar of Annesley with Newstead.

Ruth said: “I am delighted to have been appointed lead chaplain for the Trust. The role of hospital chaplains is a varied one. While we do facilitate care for specific religious needs, a lot of support we give is to people who are lonely, isolated or struggling to cope.

“Thousands of people attend our hospitals every year who need to be cared for holistically. Their spiritual health impacts their overall well-being and recovery.

“Our team is professionally trained to serve people from any spiritual background. We represent a wide range of Christian communities and will contact other faith groups if needed. Our aim is to ensure that all people who work and visit our hospitals feel valued, respected and well cared for.”

The Chaplaincy department will be hosting a licensing and welcoming service for Ruth on 31 March at 12pm. Led by the Right Reverend Richard Inwood, Acting Bishop of Southwell and Nottingham Anglican Diocese, with the Archdeacon David Picken preaching, this service will affirm Ruth’s appointment at the Trust and give her authorisation for ministry both in the hospitals and in the wider community.