Chaplaincy

It can be an anxious time when we are admitted to hospital. We’re away from the security and ‘normality’ of home; we may be feeling pretty unwell and awaiting procedures or the results of tests.

What we think about things: ourselves, our lives; what really matters and the deeper meaning of things may be thrown into confusion or doubt.

Or perhaps it is because someone close to us is unwell: and we find ourselves watching and waiting with them, not knowing what to think or feel…

We’re torn between home, work and hospital and the tension of having to hold everything together is difficult.

Whatever our / your circumstances and beliefs – whether you are a patient or relative – you might find it helpful to talk in confidence with someone about what is going on for you.

You do not have to be ‘religious’ to talk to a chaplain: we are committed to caring for individuals wherever they might be coming from – and to respecting people of every age, race, religion, creed, gender, sexual orientation and culture.

Whether you are a patient or a relative, we seek to support and care for you in whatever way(s) we can.

We will support you in seeking to practice your own beliefs while you are in hospital, whatever those are and however they are expressed.

We can offer:

• A listening ear at a time of difficulty or crisis
• Space to talk about life, purpose and the meaning of things
• Support if you wish to practice your faith or spiritual tradition
• Contact with representatives of world faith communities
• Prayer support
• Pastoral counselling
• Help in bereavement

The Chaplaincy team is based in the hospital and represents, or is in contact with, all major faiths and church denominations. The team is comprised of ministers, priests and volunteers from a range of traditions and in a variety of capacities full and part time, male and female, working together across the whole hospital.

• have any agenda other than to help and support you
• take the high moral ground
• be judgmental in any way
• 'impose' Christian or other religious beliefs on anyone
• be concerned whether you attend church/have a ‘religion’ or not

We are regularly involved (weekly/monthly etc) in facilitating patient and/or staff support schemes (such as debrief meetings) within different teams, departments and disciplines. We aim to respond to you 'where you are at', through listening to what holds meaning and value for you – however that is expressed.