CSLI is an independent service organisation. It provides its members with a structure and vehicle through which to undertake the humanitarian and charitable work it delivers. Although some might loosely describe it as part of the St Lazarus movement, it has no connection with the Order of St Lazarus which is an order of chivalry. The headquarters of CSLI is in Vienna, Austria.
The principles of CSLI are four-fold: TOLERANCE; HUMILITY; MERCY; CHARITY. Full details about CSLI at international level can be found as www.csli.at
On 4th May 2011, the inaugural meeting of CSLI GB&I was held at the Union Jack Club, Waterloo, London. It was agreed that the overarching body, or Group Command, would incorporate Great Britain and Ireland, with Commands in Scotland, Ireland, Wales, North England and South England. Enquiries would also be made about possible future activity in the Channel Islands. If, in due course, activity was forthcoming in the Channel Islands, the overarching Group Command may, at some point in the future, need to be re-named CSLI British Isles. We also have a Navy Command, headed by Dr Bryan Olive and, a College of Chaplains, led by Rt Rev Douglas Lewins.
Commanders have been appointed as follows:
- Scotland – under discussion
- Ireland – currently vacant. Discussions forthcoming.
- Wales – Dyn Parry (also liaison with Special Rescue Group)
- North England – Colin Lee
- South England – Ralph Apperley
- [Channel Islands – possible Command under review]
- Navy – Dr Bryan Olive (Admiral)
- College of Chaplains – Rt Rev Douglas Lewins
Currently, the Group Command for CSLI GB&I consists of:
- Ian Tough C-I-C,
- Steven Turner – Adjutant,
- Howard Doe - Group Liaison Officer,
- Andy Smith – Group Publicity Officer,
- Ian Smart - RSM,
- Dr Bryan Olive and Rt Rev Douglas Lewins are de facto members of Group Command as heads of CSLI Navy and CSLI College of Chaplains respectively,
Humanitarian Activity in CSLI GB&I
While we are small in number and during what we hope will be a period of growth, we need to focus our activity on things where we can make a difference with limited resources. Our members are being encouraged to undertake training to become qualified users of defibrillator (AED) equipment. This will be in conjunction with the St Lazarus Corps Special Rescue Group (SRG). We are currently looking at established AED training providers, such as St John Ambulance, to provide the training required.
It is also our intention to provide, on our website, AED location information for members to access, and we will be promoting the mobile phone application: AED NEARBY.
As a second, and additional option for humanitarian work, we are also encouraging our members to become trained in Mental Health First Aid (MHFA), this being another area where we could make a difference with a limited number of people.
Charitable Activity in CSLI GB&I
Our intention is to support lowland search dogs groups across the CSLI Commands in GB&I. South England Command is already in touch with Lowland Search Dogs Kent (LSDK). A number of our members have made financial contributions to LSDK. Our work in undertaking AED and MHFA training will also provide practical support for lowland search dogs groups.
Ceremonial Activity in CSLI GB&I
As our numbers grow, we hope to offer the services of our members by forming a small Colour Party. The Colour Party will assist in the investiture events of organisations with which our members are connected.
CSLI Navy Activity
We are exploring the possibility of CSLI Navy undertaking, or being part of, a sea rescue role at some point in the future. Ceremonially, our Navy members have links with HMS Victory, they themselves being members of the Order of St Joachim, of which Admiral Lord Nelson was himself a member.
CSLI College of Chaplains
The CSLI College of Chaplains is a wholly ecumenical body. There are currently 2 Chaplains within CSLI GB&I. Rt Rev Douglas Lewins holds office as Chaplain General. He is assisted by Rt Rev Howard Weston-Smart, Federal Chaplain of CSLI.
As well as looking after our spiritual well being, the CSLI College of Chaplains is reviewing its role in the recruitment, appointment and assignment of Chaplains to the various Commands within CSLI GB&I.