Mike Freeman recognised for Response Pastors role

A Stamford man has been recognised for his work in setting up a network of Response Pastors across the country.

Mike Freeman, a former Chief Inspector with the police, received a ‘recognition award’ from the Ascension Trust, an international charity.

“This was for my work with them forming, training and recruiting a network of Response Pastors across the UK over the past four years,” said Mike, who retired from the police in 2000 after 30 years of service.

“I was really pleased to have received the award. We have been working on this for so long.”

He said the idea for the Response Pastors had evolved from a discussion he had with police, local authorities and other groups and organisations involved in the “operational side of major incidents and crisis situations”.

“It was launched in August 2014 in London boroughs, and is now established in many areas around the UK, with almost 1,000 trained to date,” said Mike.

“A Response Pastor is a Street Pastor who has received additional training to provide support to those affected by a disaster or crisis.”

Response Pastors can be called on day or night to support and assist where needed.

This can include major natural disasters or even terrorist attacks.

“A Response Pastor is a crucial point of contact and an additional support to the established emergency services,” said Mike.

“Their primary task is to offer support and compassion to all in the event of a crisis or emergency.

“This will be outside emergency cordons at an incident or specifically to assist in what could be a reception centre for survivors, evacuees or other persons affected by the event.”

After receiving their training, a local Response Pastors team will be established in a community to be called on when needed.

“All deployments will be initially managed by the national Response Pastors Coordinator at Ascension Trust,” said Mike.

For more information, visit Response Pastors.