Is Chaplaincy Service only for the religious?
Absolutely not! The Chaplaincy Service is for everyone.
The chaplaincy team offers pastoral support to everyone in the hospital community regardless of personal beliefs. It does this, when invited, by coming alongside you and listening attentively to your unique story with an open mind in order to support you in whatever way we can.
The support offered will always be pastoral but the content and shape will vary according to the unique needs of each person. So, there will always be pastoral support as that is a common need of every person. But there may be a spiritual and religious aspect depending on the requirements of the person. We follow your agenda not ours.
I am an atheist, what about me?
Whether or not you believe in God has nothing to do with whether you might need support. We are interested in you as a whole person, not simply in what you believe. We will gladly support you if that is what you want.
I am a Christian will you bring me Holy Communion?
Yes. If you normally receive Communion, this can continue in hospital either in the Chapel or on the ward.
Where can I pray?
You are welcome to use the Chapel/Multi Faith prayer room on Level 1 (downstairs). It also has an adjacent quiet room for your use.
I have gone to pray in the Chapel/Multi Faith Prayer Room but cannot find the Qibla. Which direction is Mecca?
When you enter the CMFPR, you will see a mosaic tiled box, to the left of the Cross, in the corner. This indicates the direction of Mecca. See the picture below.
Can my own minister, priest or imam visit me?
Of course they can care for you if you so wish.
If I tell you something, will you repeat it?
No, not unless something you tell us will put you or another person in danger.
I have to talk to my family but I find it difficult, can you help me?
Yes. If you would like us to we can support you while you talk to your family and help you express anything that you might be finding difficult to explain.
Will you pray with me or read the scriptures with me?
Yes, if you ask us to. We can pray with you or for you and will read scriptures with or to you if that is what you would like us to do.
What about diet?
If you have any particular dietary requirements, either on medical, religious or cultural grounds, these can all be met by the hospital. You will be asked all about your requirements when you are admitted to hospital.
What if my friend or relative cannot feed themselves?
If you are concerned about your relative not being able to eat without help, you should mention this to the medical staff first of all. If you remain concerned, you can always talk to a member of the chaplaincy team and we can raise any worries you might have with a member of staff.
I live a long way from the hospital and cannot visit my relative. Can you visit them?
Yes. If you would like someone from the chaplaincy team to visit them, you should contact the chaplaincy on 01322 428100 ext. 4640.