We were delighted to celebrate the licensing of the Rev Nicky Skipworth as the new Lead Chaplain to Thames Valley Police yesterday (27th Jan). The short ceremony conducted by the Bishop of Oxford, was a meaningful and inspiring occasion, bringing together faith and community to mark the start of Nicky's important role.
Among those in attendance were the Archdeacon of Oxford, the Deputy Chief Constable of Thames Valley Police Ben Snuggs, KPM, and our Chair of Police Chaplaincy UK Dom Jones, who is also the Lead Chaplain to Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary with whom Thames Valley has a working partnership.
We extend our warmest congratulations to Nicky as she takes on this vital role of supporting officers, staff, and their families across Thames Valley. Her dedication and passion will undoubtedly make a significant impact, and we look forward to seeing the chaplaincy flourish under her leadership.
Our prayers are with Nicky, her team, and the whole of Thames Valley Police as they embark on this new chapter together.
Please note: As an ordained Anglican priest, Nicky required a formal licensing by her Bishop to serve in this new role. This reflects her faith tradition, as Anglican clergy require official authorisation to minister in new contexts. However, not all Lead Chaplains will need to be licensed, as requirements depend on their faith and denomination. Police chaplaincy is wonderfully diverse, with representatives from a range of traditions offering vital pastoral care and support to officers, staff, and their families.