At Weston Hospicecare, our doctors, nurses, physiotherapist, occupational therapist, complementary therapists, chaplain and counsellor all work together to provide palliative care that covers both the physical and emotional needs of a patient, and also supports their loved ones. We believe that emotional and spiritual care is every bit as important as attending to a patient’s physical needs.
Our Chaplain and Spiritual Lead, Karen, explains more about her role: “Chaplaincy is about spiritual care. Our palliative care is concerned for the whole person, and spiritual care can be a major factor in helping to settle a person’s wellbeing.”
Many patients and their families talk to us about the ‘big questions’ that are suddenly being asked such as ‘Why me?’, ‘What happens now?’ and ‘What has my life been about?’ Our chaplaincy team aims to help you work through those questions.
“We give patients and loved ones the opportunity to express thoughts, feelings and emotions that are new and unfamiliar to them. Patients are able to discuss how they’re coping, or to ask any questions they might have. We are non-judgmental and entirely unconditional,” Karen says.
Weston Hospicecare has a chapel, a space that is neutral and accessible to all, including friends and family who might like to use the room to sit quietly, to listen to some music, to work through their emotions, or to pray. The word chapel originates from the Latin, ‘capella,’ meaning ‘to cloak.’ That sense of envelopment is tangible in our chapel. Indeed, one of our patient’s relatives described being in the space as receiving ‘a big hug.’
Our chapel contains symbols and items from different faiths and approaches to spirituality. We have a candle bowl available if you would like to light a candle, and we have a hope tree for messages and prayers. The chapel is used at certain times through the week for people to gather for reflection, an option that is available to everyone. The chapel also holds our books of remembrance, as well as our book of celebration.
We are able to offer assistance with and conducting of funerals, weddings, baptisms and other blessings. Our team can also link you with your local faith community, if you would like. A member of our chaplaincy team is available to anyone who is admitted to our In-Patient Unit. We can also offer to see you in Day Hospice, or at home, if you would rather.
For more information on our chaplaincy services, please speak to a member of our Family Support Team.