To complement the work of our chaplains, the Chaplaincy and Spiritual Care Department is fortunate to have a group of Chaplaincy volunteers who visit our wards. 

The volunteers come from a variety of local faith / belief groups and work with the chaplains to help meet the spiritual needs of our patients.  Our volunteers are required to:

  • Be caring, gentle and sensitive in their approach
  • Have some understanding of what it’s like to be a patient
  • Be a committed member of a local faith / belief group
  • Be a good listener as well as good company
  • Be comfortable sharing laughter and tears with our patients
  • Be someone who enjoys meeting people from a variety of backgrounds
  • Not overstay their welcome!

If this sounds like you, find out more about our volunteering programme.

Becoming a Chaplaincy Volunteer

If you’re interested in doing some work as a Chaplaincy volunteer, please telephone the team and we’ll arrange a time for you to come and see us.  Then the process is as follows:

  • Informal chat with at least one full time chaplain
  • Submitting an application form (online via the Trust website)
  • Interview
  • References (please note that one of these will need to come from your authorising faith / belief group)
  • DBS clearance
  • Completing a Chaplaincy and Trust induction
  • Successful trial period

Sounds daunting? In two minds? Why not read what current volunteers have to say about the experience?

What our Chaplaincy volunteers have to say:

“As part of the Chaplaincy Team it helps your own faith as you get to think more about God yourself and how you can be there for others.  I can’t say how much it means to me and an honour to try to do God’s work.”  Margaret

“Leaving a patient smiling and sometimes with a happy tear, is so rewarding.  That’s why I volunteer.”  Sue

“The best thing I have done – to volunteer for the Chaplaincy Team.  It’s a privilege to visit the patients, just a little chat, a prayer or a listening ear is so appreciated.  The gift of friendship and support from the team is truly amazing…” Jenny

“It’s such a blessing to be able to spend time at a patient’s bedside and listen to their story or their concerns or say a little prayer.” Sian

“….it’s become a very rewarding part of my life.  I hope the patients I visit remember me as much as I do them…. The team, whom are now very dear friends, give you love and support which surround you.”  Dominica

“Chaplaincy at Blackpool Victoria Hospital has been an honour and a privilege.  Each time I arrive, I feel nervous.  But as I interact with patients, I feel a strength and depth flow out of me, to help and encourage them – a strength that flows from God.  And words that fit each situation.  What an honour to serve God in such a setting.” Charles