The Page was last edited
22 April 2002

Contents Soundings:  9

Contact Editor of News Sheet

Join SACH online

Subscribe to the Journal online

Ian McDonald 
(Chaplain Kirkcaldy Hospitals) represents SACH on the Hospitals, Healthcare and Universities Sub-committee

SACH  Soundings
 No 9 March 2002

Hospitals, Healthcare and Universities 
Sub Committee 

The committee met on 15 January and as might be expected at the turn of the year preparation for the committee’s report to the General Assembly was on the agenda. The report to be published in the blue book will celebrate the positive climate and opportunities for chaplaincy in a changing health service. 

The need for religious and spiritual care is recognised by the Scottish Executive whose support backs up the recent appointment of a whole-time Training and Development Officer. Chris has been invited to attend all future meetings of the sub-committee. 

What’s in a name? There is growing discussion of what distinctions should be made between chaplains who are “part-time” and those who are “sessional” chaplains. Clarification and tighter definitions need to be sought as distinctions are being made in certain areas. The issue is particularly important in relation to terms and conditions for chaplains who are not whole-time. 

The committee looked at the possibility of professional supervision and support for University Chaplains. With the support of the individual chaplains concerned it was agreed to write to universities asking them to make available resources so that those chaplains who wish to do so can secure an appropriate system of supervision and support. 

Ayrshire and Arran Primary Care NHS Trust are preparing to welcome the Rev Sheila Mitchell as their new Chaplain. Sheila hopes to move from Lesmahagow : Old Parish Church and take up her new duties sometime in March.

Ian McDonald