Founding club member and inaugural chair Peter Gilbert has been awarded an honorary doctorate by Staffordshire University.

Peter’s nomination was in recognition of his considerable work in the areas of Social Work and Spirituality at Staffordshire University, University of Warwick, and Sussex University, together with his outstanding service as the former Director of Worcestershire Social Services.

The University bestows honorary degrees on individuals who have provided and continue to provide inspiration and a positive example to others and whose commitment to their field goes beyond the achievement of their personal ambition.

Previous recipients include age equality champion, Baroness Joan Bakewell DBE; political journalist, Andrew Marr; poet laureate, Carol Ann Duffy CBE; Filmmaker Michael Wood; Paralympian Lee Pearson CBE and Live Aid inspirational nurse, Dr Dame Claire Bertschinger.

Well done Peter from everyone at the club!

Peter Gilbert Doctorate

Peter’s Publications

Peter is donating royalties from his latest book to the charities Motor Neurone Disease Association and St. Richard’s Hospice. As the club’s inaugural chair, he has always promoted the link between running, health and the inner spirit.

Peter Gilbert Book - Spirituality and End of Life Care

Spirituality and End of Life Care (2013)

Edited by Peter Gilbert, this moving and insightful handbook collects wisdom and experience from pactitioners and those who have lost a loved one on the role of spirituality in end of life care. It addresses the place of spirituality in our modern society and the challenge of life and death, best practice in end of life care, belief systems, how spirituality can play a part in care workers’ roles, as well as creative interventions and leadership challenges.

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Spirituality and Mental Health (2011)

Edited by Peter Gilbert, this is a highly regarded handbook for service users, carers and staff wishing to bring a spiritual dimension to mental health services. The opening chapter by Peter discusses running and the running club as an aid to mental wellbeing.

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