Principle 6
Development and Education

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Support of Chaplains' Development

Hospitals are to make provision for training and updating members of Chaplaincy and Pastoral Care Services and supporting their professional development needs.

Minimum Pastoral Training

Chaplains and all Pastoral Care Workers or volunteers are expected to complete pastoral training equivalent to the Introductory Programme of Clinical Pastoral Education (40 hours). For full-time Chaplains and Pastoral Care Workers it is required that they undertake the Basic Clinical Pastoral Education (400 hours) or equivalent as determined by CCAC.

In-Service Training

Chaplains and Pastoral Care Workers participate in continuing education programs in the hospital and other places of learning, both for their own development and to contribute to the increased understanding of other staff about matters relating to faith and health.

General Orientation and Pastoral Consultations

Chaplaincy and Pastoral Care Services participate in

• providing General Orientation programmes for new staff,

• pastoral consultation,

• training and supervision for leaders of religious communities and communities of faith in the local area served by the hospital and,

• together with Chaplains and Pastoral Care Workers from other faith traditions and hospitals, encourage the development and continuation of effective Chaplaincy and Pastoral Care throughout the State.

Resources and facilities

Hospitals provide facilities and support for the Chaplaincy and Pastoral Care Department.

Office Space

This includes office space and adequate facilities which will usually include phones and pagers,

Access

Access to

• email, intranet and internet,

• patient clinical notes and health information,

• staff amenities [such as parking, cafeteria]

• clerical assistance.

Financial

Provision of a budgeted cost centre, and financial support for attendance at Chaplain or Pastoral Care Workers’ professional development activities.

Multi-Faith Spiritual Care Centre

In addition there should be an adequate and suitable Spiritual Care Centre for Chaplaincy and Pastoral Care activity, including where possible an on-site chapel specifically designated for worship and group devotions.

The Spiritual Care Centre should be easily accessible by patients, families and staff, and of a design suitable for use by all faiths or people with no specific faith adherence.

In General Hospitals it needs to be accessible 24 hours a day and seven days a week. The CCAC can advise the Hospital regarding its location, design and furnishings.

Clinical Supervision

Chaplains and Pastoral Care Workers are expected to receive clinical supervision by a qualified supervisor who understands the requirements of their profession, is familiar with the training of Chaplains and Pastoral Care Workers, and is aware of the professional standards required by the relevant member organisation of CCAC.