Serving in uniformed public services requires considerable commitment. The time and support people need to undertake their public service can result in challenges, and ongoing pressures can remain long after service ends.

The Public Services Staff Group (PSSG) has been created to focus on the welfare and wellbeing of this community of staff. It is for anyone who serves or has served in the emergency services, armed forces, cadet forces, or the likes of mountain rescue and St John Ambulance etc., whether in the UK or internationally. If you’re interested in joining, or would like to find out more, please fill out this online form.

We chatted with the PSSG’s steering group to find out more about their public service and their aspirations for the new group.

‘As a Community First Responder (CFR), I see first-hand how vital it is to have a strong network of individuals who are committed to making a difference,' says Sarah Horton, ER Lead International – Global Mobility within HR. CFRs are volunteer members of their community who are trained to respond to emergency calls. They attend the scene of an emergency within a few minutes, often before the emergency service arrives, and offer lifesaving first aid.

‘This group provides a platform to share experiences, foster collaboration and support one another in our shared dedication to public service. By connecting with like-minded colleagues, we can inspire each other to continue serving our communities with compassion and resilience while also raising awareness of the crucial roles we play outside of our professional responsibilities.’

Julian Strong is Director of Operations for the Faculty of Natural, Mathematical & Engineering Sciences. He served in the Royal Navy Reserve in the Maritime Trade Operations branch following basic and specialist training at HMS Raleigh and HMS Collingwood. After leaving the navy reserve, Julian was commissioned as a sub-lieutenant in the Royal Navy’s Volunteer Cadet Corps in 2020, where he serves on the headquarters staff providing support to the volunteer instructors teaching cadets.

‘Volunteers bring tremendous commitment and dedication to supporting others, often making significant personal sacrifices to serve their communities and country. For me, this group provides a space for public service volunteers at King’s to support one another, serve as a collective voice, and celebrate the impactful contributions that staff make beyond their professional roles.’

‘I expect the PSSG to support staff by focusing on their wellbeing,’ says Henrique Schmitz, ‘offering resources for mental and physical health and promoting open sharing of ideas.’ Henrique is a veteran of the Brazilian Army and Technical Services Manager at the Faculty of Natural, Mathematical & Engineering Sciences.

He completed a rigorous training program at the Núcleo de Preparação de Oficiais da Reserva – NPOR (Reserve Officer Preparation Centre) in 2007, focusing on Anti-Aircraft Artillery. Henrique was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the Brazilian Army Reserve.

‘The group should,’ Henrique continues, ‘provide a space for shared experiences, and celebrate the invaluable contributions of our colleagues. Ultimately, it should be a place where service is acknowledged, wellbeing is prioritised and connections are strengthened.’