What would I be doing?
The role of the chaplaincy team is to offer spiritual and pastoral support to the hospital community.
As a chaplaincy volunteer you would work with patients, visitors and members of staff of all faiths and religious beliefs. You would support Chaplaincy staff in helping people at times of need, such as during experiences of life and death, illness and injury.
As a chaplaincy volunteer your role might include:
- visiting patients and their relatives on wards
- running errands for patients
- representing the chaplains on the wards
- keeping clinical staff informed of patients’ emotions and concerns
- referring patients to the chaplains
- helping chaplaincy staff during services and events
- arranging daily and seasonal displays in the chapel
- tidying and maintaining the chapel
- offering practical help to bereaved relatives
- supporting bereavement staff.
The chaplaincy team is made up of representatives of different religious beliefs and faiths. As a member of the team, your role would not be to seek to convert or impose on others your own religious belief or opinions, but to offer comfort and reassurance where needed.
What skills would I need?
To be a chaplaincy volunteer you need:
- an understanding of the need to be discreet at all times
- a friendly, caring nature
- excellent listening skills
- the ability to always remain objective and impartial
- sensitivity and respect for others
- an inclusive approach to those whose values and beliefs differ from your own
If you'd like to know more about being a volunteer, give us a call! All calls are confidential and because we're impartial, you'll get the best possible advice on your options. You can also
email an adviser or
request a call back at a time to suit you.
