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An organisation dedicated to supporting retired members of St John Ambulance is preparing to celebrate its 25th anniversary next month – but what exactly is the St John Fellowship? Express spoke with a founding member to find out more….
The St John Fellowship in Jersey was set up in 2000 as an independent organisation aimed at supporting former members of the first aid charity.
With 92 members, it is the largest fellowship unit in the UK out of 220 nationwide – with some local members having served St John Ambulance for up to 70 years.
John Brisset, a founding member and liaison officer, explained that the organisation's key mission is to maintain connections and to support the wellbeing of those who have dedicated years to St John Ambulance.
Pictured: John Brisset in 2016 when he was an officer for St John Ambulance.
To do this, he explained that the Fellowship organises regular social events like group meals and offers practical support to those who are housebound, in hospital, or in care homes.
This support includes home visits, transport to hospital appointments, and other assistance for those less able to leave their homes.
During the pandemic, volunteers went the extra mile by personally delivering Easter eggs and afternoon teas to members.
Beyond supporting its members, the Fellowship remains closely tied to St John Ambulance.
Mr Brisset explained that members volunteer as "casualties" during national first aid competitions – and also help with fundraising and administrative support where needed.
A standout feature of Jersey's Fellowship is its marching group, he added, and how the local branch has the organisation's only official flag.
The group has also represented the Fellowship at events such as the Armistice Parade in London, and St John's Day at St Paul's Cathedral.
Mr Brisset said: "We're the only fellowship in the UK with our own flag and marching group.
"London often seeks our advice on developing similar initiatives."
The group's marching expertise earned them the honour of marching past King Charles and Queen Camilla during their visit to Jersey in July.
Mr Brisset said: "Everybody got absolutely drenched through to their underwear! That all said, we thoroughly enjoyed it.
"We didn't actually notice that was happening, because we were so high on marching past the King and Queen. So that was really, really special.
"We're the only Fellowship that has actually done that."
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