7 Chaplains Andrew and Claire in the chaplaincy office something to be celebrated, not feared – we celebrate all diversity amongst our patients, their families, staff, volunteers and community.” Andrew said: “We do what is asked of us as we’re led by the patient’s needs. People sometimes ask for support from a chaplain who is not part of their faith, or ask for human, generic support. Contact the team BH: 020 8216 4355 ext. 64355 CFH: 020 8375 1078 ext. 51078 RFH: 020 7830 2742 ext. 33096 You know you are making a difference “ “ The team’s varied work often sees them spending time on the wards. Last year, they made over 12,000 visits to patients across the trust. “My days are varied but always involve visiting patients, both Muslim and non-Muslim,” added Rashid. “The most important part of my job is the opportunity to provide comfort and solace to patients by listening to them, providing spiritual advice and seeing them smile.” Indigo, who is based at BH, said: “No day is like the previous one. We receive referrals from patients, staff, family members and even a patient’s faith network. When we’re on the wards, people can often stop us and ask for our support.” Zahrah works with renal patients at Tottenham Hale dialysis unit. She said: “When I’m with a patient, we could be chatting about anything – their latest appointment or what they’re up to at the weekend. I try to make space for patients to speak freely about what’s at the forefront of their minds.” The team champions staff wellbeing by organising weekly mindfulness, art therapy and yoga for staff across the trust. They also provide one-to one sessions, debriefs after difficult scenarios and teaching sessions for teams. Defying expectations “You can never make assumptions about people you’re going to see,” Indigo explained. “We can’t assume what someone’s faith means to them until we ask them. We visit with a listening heart and see diversity as “Being with people at a time of need and helping them in some way is always worthwhile and it’s a great privilege. You know you’re making a difference in a personal way.” Staff networks Zahrah and Indigo are involved in RFL staff networks and have found being a chaplain brings lots of skills to the table. “I’m co-chair of the Royal Free London BAME network. |As a chaplain, I’m always curious about people and I bring that curiosity to the network, too,” said Zahrah. Indigo is part of the LGBTQ+ and friends staff network and chair of the transgender and non-binary working group. “Being part of these networks and the chaplaincyspiritual care team is about providing a safe space and creating an environment which allows people to share their stories.” ‘Come and ask’ “We offer a listening ear in a supportive environment, whatever your worries or concerns. We are here for you,” said Rashid.
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