Our hospital is probably the place with the highest concentration of spiritual concerns in the whole area, yet if we are honest, we in the churches seem to be somewhat unaware of this, apart from when one visits a particular friend on the ward. Our visit may make us realise how cut off and anxious a person can be, whether the admission is for a minor medical problem or a serious threat. Multiply that concern by 380 (the number of beds) and then, in addition add the stresses and emotional weight carried by the nurses and doctors, and the scale of the issue will soon raise our eyebrows!
Since Covid the number of volunteer chaplains has dropped drastically. There is such a vacuum of spiritual care, a fact that is so poignant when spiritual care has been emphasised as an essential aspect to medical care: data shows its measurable benefit.
Even a couple of hours on the wards with free access to share with any patient can be very rewarding. Sometimes even a brief moment chatting with a porter or ward clerk is an opportunity to encourage and appreciate them. They so value such moments.
Do please think about this call to care, to serve others. If you wish to explore the idea, do please ring the lead chaplain, Graham Atfield on 07972 242741