Spiritual and Pastoral Care

Welcome

The Spiritual and Pastoral Care Department is committed to caring for the spiritual, pastoral and religious needs of patients, staff, and relatives of all faiths (and of none). Our team currently consists of one whole-time Chaplain, a part-time Roman Catholic Chaplain (25.5 hours), one Team Chaplain (18.75 hours) and a team of volunteers on each of the sites. In addition, local Roman Catholic Priests regularly attend patients when requested.

We are developing a multi-faith approach in our team so that patients and staff can access the kind of support that is appropriate to them. We have links with many faith leaders in the local community. These can be contacted through the Spiritual and Pastoral Care Team (see contact details( or through the hospital switchboard.

The Spiritual and Pastoral Care Team is able to provide support in the following areas of patient and staff care:

  • Religious support
  • Bereavement care
  • End of life issues
  • Facing distressing news
  • Care of the dying and of their relatives
  • Pastoral/spiritual care of palliative patients
  • Ethical issues in patient care
  • Staff support
  • Understanding our own needs and 'triggers' in the workplace
  • Memorial and Funeral Services

Members of our team visit during the week. If you would like a visit please ask ward staff to pass on your request or contact us direct.

The Spiritual and Pastoral Care Department is committed to caring for the spiritual, pastoral and religious needs of patients, staff, and relatives of all faiths (and of none).

Calendar of major religious festivals for the year

The Trust respects all people's religious and cultural affiliations, and as this can be significant for Patient Care and working practices, we provide a calendar of major religious festivals for the year:

» View the calendar

Picture of Watford Hospital Radio
Picture of the Just Giving logo
Picture of the NHS Choose Well logo
Picture of the Smoke Free logo
© 2000 - West Herts Hospitals NHS Trust