Hello, I am Helen Burgess the new Lead Chaplain at the University of Bedfordshire.

Can you tell us a bit about you?

I began my career journey in adult and paediatric nursing and later health visiting. My first degree was in community health studies from Reading. I then specialised in paediatric palliative care, working in children’s hospice and Macmillan nursing. I developed a keen interest as a specialist nurse in lecturing, eventually holding teaching posts at both the University of Salford and the University of Hertfordshire. After a career break with a young family, I returned to focus my career in pastoral roles with young people in the secondary sector as a Christian school worker. Then, I was a school chaplain in a faith school in Bedford and the last few years as chaplaincy co-ordinator for a multi-academy trust. 

What are you looking forward to most in your new role?

I am looking forward to working in the university sector again. I am pleased to be joining a diverse team working in the community and faith provision on both the Luton and the Bedford campuses.  I am already meeting students and staff from so many different cultural and faith backgrounds and feel privileged to walk with them on their individual journeys.  I hope we can build together on the rich heritage of chaplaincy at the University of Bedfordshire.

Who is your biggest role model?

This is a difficult question. I have so many! I don’t think I can name just one, but I would say the young women and men I have walked with who have shown such resilience and courage in the face of serious challenges to achieve their own personal goals in life.

What can students expect from The Treehouse in the new academic year?

The Treehouse is amazing. It’s a bustling, vibrant corner of our community. Students receive a warm welcome and hospitality through a warm drink and facilities to warm their own food.

Our international students are often completing English courses and they have the opportunity to practise their English speaking skills whilst making new friends. Music often can be heard in the Treehouse, as well as laughter whilst students engage in various games.

We also have quieter areas to chat and seek out support. We hope to offer hospitality as students move into their accommodation, including a welcome BBQ, as well as a Treehouse activity and information area. We want to invite students to our infamous Globe Café and, for those wanting to explore the Christian faith, the Alpha programme.

Anything else you'd like to tell us?

Thank you for the warm welcome. Join us in this new season as I lead the chaplaincy on both the Luton and Bedford campuses with the help of Anto, our deputy lead chaplain, our chaplaincy assistants, Joy, Praisy and Forrest and our team of volunteers! Do drop in and say hello and share your ideas as we grow together!

Contact details:
You can contact the Luton and Bedford Chaplaincy Teams by email: chaplaincy@beds.ac.uk.