Many people who are in hospital find that it is a time that is very different to normal life.  It may be a time of uncertainty, of questioning what’s important, and of coming to terms with issues hitherto not faced. This time may bring to the surface many feelings, feelings that may be difficult to cope with and sometimes a little overpowering.  Sharing these thoughts and feelings  can often help us to be healthier.  Though sharing them isn’t always easy.

Here is something brief about how chaplaincy in hospital works.

Healthcare Chaplains are part of the NHS health care team. They are appointed by NHS Trusts and have pastoral responsibility towards all patients and their relatives regardless of whether the patient is religious or not. They also offer care and support to NHS staff.

To talk about your anxieties with a confidential and informed listener can often help to get things into perspective. Chaplains also assist in lots of practical ways, like helping to contact relatives. They know the hospital and the support structures. Patients can request a chaplain by simply asking the nurse to call him / her. And those who wish to receive Holy Communion at their bedside or to attend one of the regular hospital services of worship only have to ask in the same way.

Your conversation with a healthcare chaplain is always regarded as confidential. A chaplain would only make mention of it to anyone if that was your stated wish. In our work, that is very important indeed.

The size of the chaplaincy team varies. Cottage hospitals have part-time chaplains who are "on call" when they are not "on site". Larger hospitals have teams of chaplains representing the Anglican, Catholic and Free Church traditions. Patients who are members of other great world faith traditions can request to see their named spiritual advisor.

Healthcare Chaplains within the area of the Worcester Diocesan area: