The Chaplaincy Service at CHFT has strengthened its offer over the past year, supporting more patients, families, visitors and colleagues than ever before, with more than 1,500 patient interactions across the Trust over the last 12 months.

And as an introduction to the service, the team have recorded a video featuring some of our chaplains, which is also available on our their website pages.

Matron for Patient Experience, Alex Keaskin, shares more on how the service is growing and the support they offer. She said: "Despite being a small team of five part-time multifaith chaplains covering both hospital sites, the service continues to provide support to people of all faiths and none. Alongside its weekday service, on-call support is available at weekends, with additional out-of-hours end-of-life support provided through a partnership with the Roman Catholic Diocese of Leeds.

"The past year has seen significant progress. Alongside our five chaplains we have 12 volunteer chaplains. The team has also introduced regular ward walkarounds so they can connect with patients who may not otherwise be referred for support.

"Several other initiatives have helped to improve the experience of patients and colleagues. These include faith resource boxes on every ward, multi-faith guidance developed with community faith leaders, and specialist guidance to support the care of Jehovah’s Witness patients. The team also distributed 400 Ramadan packs to colleagues, hosted an Eid celebration event, and continues to work closely with palliative care teams, medical examiners and ward staff.

"The Chaplaincy Service has also played an important role in supporting colleagues, including holding memorial services for colleagues who have sadly died and providing support during difficult times. Through community engagement, they have helped our Charity by raising £5,000 for the maternity bereavement suite.

"Feedback from patients and colleagues highlights the difference the service makes. One colleague described the chaplaincy team's "kindness, compassion and dedication" in supporting a young patient at the end of their life, while another praised the team for providing valuable support and space to grieve."

Upcoming events

There are several events planned which are on the Chaplaincy intranet pages. Upcoming events include:

Diwali Celebration

Friday 30 October

• HRI – Forum Room 2 12:00 to 13:00
• CRH – Meeting Room 2, Learning & Development Centre 12:00 to 13:00

Join us as we celebrate Diwali – the Festival of Lights.

Come along to enjoy a time of celebration, reflection and togetherness as we mark this special occasion.

Remembrance

Wednesday 11 November
Hope Centre, HRI  10:45

Please join us as we come together to remember and honour those who have served and sacrificed.

The service will be followed by a one-minute silence at 11:00 and Mass.

Whether you follow a faith, another belief, or no faith at all, everyone is welcome. These gatherings offer opportunities to pause, reflect, celebrate and come together.