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 multifaith 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.