Chaplaincy

Spiritual Care

Coming into hospital can be a worrying experience and patients have many immediate and practical questions, such as: ‘How long will I be in here?’, ‘How will my family cope while I am away?’  Other more difficult questions are harder to put into words, like: ‘What does the future hold for me?‘  and ‘Why me?’

At Duchess of Kent House, we are concerned with the whole person, and aim not only to alleviate physical symptoms, but also to offer spiritual, psychological and emotional support.  The Charity is pleased therefore to provide funding for our own chaplain in the unit. 
The chaplain is here to:

• Be a listening ear about anything which is causing you concern (it doesn’t have to be about religion)
• Help you work through some of the issues which arise from serious illness
• Address any religious needs you may have (e.g. for prayers, Holy Communion)
• If required, put you in touch with a representative from another faith or world view

Who is the Chaplain?

Judy Davies is our chaplain. She is on site 5 days a week, including Sundays, and may also be available out-of-hours if needed. We are also supported by Father Richard Maniak, who regularly visits all Roman Catholic patients in the unit. We hold contacts details for representatives of all the major faiths and belief groups.

“The Sanctuary” at Duchess of Kent House

The Sanctuary is a small, peaceful room set aside as a place for prayer and quiet reflection.  It has a wide selection of books, including the scriptures and prayers of different faiths, and other materials for worship such as prayer mats and candles.  The Duchess of Kent House Memorial Book is kept here, as well as the annual Light Up A Life In Memoriam books. You’ll also find a book where you can write your own thoughts.