They are committed to an inclusive philosophy of spiritual and pastoral care which is met through the provision of a multi-faith Spiritual and Pastoral Care service (SPC). The service promotes and safeguards the religious and spiritual lives of service users, carers and staff, as well as upholding the spiritual life and values of the institution and informing and supporting local faith communities.
The SPC service represents a variety of Christian denominations together with Islamic and Buddhist faith communities. It is the responsibility of the service to find suitable representatives of other faith communities when requested. They recognise that the spiritual dimension extends beyond the boundaries of formalised religion to include the whole of human experience. It recognises also the importance of respecting and supporting individual and personal values and meanings, which is expressed in practical support, guidance and care for individuals and communities as they face the difficulties and joys of life.
Chaplains are official representatives of spiritual traditions working in secular contexts. They accompany individuals who are experiencing mental and emotional distress, and they are experienced in working with people from all faith communities and none. The philosophy of the SPC service ensures respect for all, and does not make distinctions between people on the basis of their faith, race, culture, gender, or sexual identity. Chaplains encourage individuals to discover their own resources, and to explore areas of uncertainty without imposing their own beliefs or agenda upon them.
In addition, members of the team facilitate multidisciplinary staff support groups, and work with individual staff members in a supervisory/support capacity. The SPC Service supports programmes in team leadership development, complementary therapies and mind-body practices for staff. Members of the SPC service work with a number of external agencies to raise awareness about the complex nature and importance of spiritual and religious elements as they interface with mental health treatment and care.
The SPC service represents a variety of Christian denominations together with Islamic and Buddhist faith communities. It is the responsibility of the service to find suitable representatives of other faith communities when requested. They recognise that the spiritual dimension extends beyond the boundaries of formalised religion to include the whole of human experience. It recognises also the importance of respecting and supporting individual and personal values and meanings, which is expressed in practical support, guidance and care for individuals and communities as they face the difficulties and joys of life.
Chaplains are official representatives of spiritual traditions working in secular contexts. They accompany individuals who are experiencing mental and emotional distress, and they are experienced in working with people from all faith communities and none. The philosophy of the SPC service ensures respect for all, and does not make distinctions between people on the basis of their faith, race, culture, gender, or sexual identity. Chaplains encourage individuals to discover their own resources, and to explore areas of uncertainty without imposing their own beliefs or agenda upon them.
In addition, members of the team facilitate multidisciplinary staff support groups, and work with individual staff members in a supervisory/support capacity. The SPC Service supports programmes in team leadership development, complementary therapies and mind-body practices for staff. Members of the SPC service work with a number of external agencies to raise awareness about the complex nature and importance of spiritual and religious elements as they interface with mental health treatment and care.
Chaplains are available on all four main inpatient sites and referrals can be received.
Please contact:
| Bethlem Royal Hospital chaplains: | 020 3228 4361 |
| Ladywell Hospital chaplains: | 020 3228 6210 |
| Lambeth Hospital chaplains: | 020 3228 6210 |
| Maudsley Hospital chaplains: | 020 3228 2815 |
