We are thrilled to announce the relaunch of the Spiritual Care program at Stevenson Memorial Hospital. The program, which had been temporarily suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic, was reintroduced when volunteers recognized a need for its return.
Led by dedicated volunteers, including Reverend Kim McArthur of St. Andrew Anglican Church and Carla Beckett, President of the SMH Auxiliary, the Spiritual Care team has been working diligently visiting patients, providing compassionate support, spiritual comfort, and meaningful conversation to those in need.
Spirituality can greatly impact a patient's well-being, an often overlooked area in healthcare. According to studies, unmet spiritual needs in patients can lead to lower levels of satisfaction with care received and can lead to reduced levels of quality of life, increased risk of depression, and reduction in perceptions of spiritual peace.
Become a Member of the Spiritual Care Team
Are you interested in becoming a member of the Spiritual Care Team?
Ideal volunteers should have:
- Strong spiritual background
- Understanding that ongoing training is required
- Understanding of time commitment and dedication to the program
- Some experience working with vulnerable and sensitive individuals
Additionally, initial and ongoing training is supported by a psychotherapist who works with the volunteers to specifically provide training in mental health issues and awareness. Volunteers should also be excellent listeners, compassionate, comfortable around death and dying, and provide a calming presence to those around them.
The role of the Spiritual Care Team does not involve the promotion of any specific religion or belief. Their primary function is to provide attentive listening, support, and advocacy for visitors.
For more information or to inquire about becoming a volunteer on the Spiritual Care Team, please contact Carla: beckettcarla@gmail.com
