Scottish Journal of Healthcare Chaplaincy Vol.10. No. 2. 2007 9 PROACTIVE OR REACTIVE CHAPLAINCY

Abstract: In November of 2003 a more proactive approach to Chaplaincy was instigated in a Renal Unit. Rather than wait for referrals, the Chaplain visited round the unit, ask-ing patients about their experience of renal care and dialysis. The result was a hugely increased number of patients and staff involved in spiritual care, and a greater aware-ness on the part of the staff of the work of the Chaplaincy Team. This article is an ex-amination of the process whereby Chaplaincy became an integral part of the care given on this unit and reports the results of a survey of staff regarding this process. This also contributes to current debate about the professionalizing of Chaplaincy and the alloca-tion of spiritual care resources