Non-religious pastoral care: a practical guide

"This ground-breaking book is a guide to non-religious pastoral care practice in healthcare, prisons, education and the Armed Forces in the UK. It brings a new perspective to our understanding of care services traditionally offered by chaplaincy departments. The book charts the progress from a Christian, to a multi-faith and on to a fully inclusive care service. Compelling evidence is presented showing strong and broad support for non-religious pastoral care provision. A practical guide, it outlines the beliefs and values on which this care is founded and its person-centred approach. The role, skills, competencies and training requirements for non-religious pastoral carers are described. Institutions need to consider their policy responses to the rapid development of non-religious pastoral care provision. A number of policy aspects are explored including understanding service users' needs, recruitment and communications. This book is essential reading for non-religious pastoral carers and those thinking of entering this field. Chaplains and institutional managers responsible for chaplaincy or spiritual care departments will find this book gives them valuable insights into the positive contribution non-religious pastoral carers can make in building stronger, more inclusive pastoral, spiritual, and religious care services"--

The development of pastoral, spiritual, and religious care practice -- Public perceptions of chaplains and non-religious pastoral carers -- Religious and non-religious beliefs in society -- Beliefs and values -- Roles, skills, and competencies -- Death, rituals, and memorials -- Ethical behaviour -- A changing care service -- Understanding people's needs -- Effective communications -- Better recruitment -- Policy and practice development