We are seeking to appoint a Health Care Chaplain to work ecumenically within the Trust (0.4 FTE) but based at our University Hospital of North Durham site, with occasional working at other sites within the trust. As this post is based in an acute setting, applicants should therefore be able to demonstrate relevant pastoral and chaplaincy experience gained in an acute healthcare setting

Main duties of the job

Chaplains are expected to

work as part of a multi-disciplinary team and be comfortable working alongside colleagues of different denominations, other faith groups and none

offer Pastoral, Spiritual and Religious Care to patients carers and staff on wards and in departments across the Trust.

apply an in-depth understanding of the bereavement process in working sensitively with the wide ranging spiritual and religious needs and concerns of patients, carers and staff facing life changing events

respond in a pastorally sensitive way to the varied complex situations of a maternity unit including the willingness to conduct appropriate services.

About us

If you are being interviewed you must accept an interview slot in the system to continue, even if you have arranged with the manager

You must be able to produce ALL certificates stated essential in the person specification or you will not be able to complete pre-employment checks

We provide hospital services from two acute sites - Darlington Memorial Hospital and University Hospital of North Durham. We have a centre for planned care in Bishop Auckland and provide care from community hospitals in Chester-le-Street, Shotley Bridge, Barnard Castle, Sedgefield and Weardale as well as over 80 other community based settings and providing care in patients' homes.

We particularly welcome applications from disabled and Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) candidates as BAME and disabled people are currently under-represented

From April 1 2024 we are unable to offer sponsorship for healthcare roles that do not meet the minimum salary, If you are in the UK on a VISA please ensure you have no restrictions that would prevent you from taking this post.

Full Job Descriptions can be found in the adverts supporting documents

Job description

Job responsibilities

Chaplains require excellent communication skills to engage easily with people from all kinds of backgrounds, including those of different religious traditions and those of no faith. Pastoral sensitivity is an absolute essential, together with the ability to work within what can sometimes be very distressing situations.

Chaplains need to be team players, working as part of a mutually supportive and multi-disciplinary team and to demonstrate courtesy, sensitivity and a deep personal spirituality. Meanwhile they need to be adaptable so the care they give is always appropriate to the situation they encounter

Person Specification

Qualifications

Essential

• As necessary for authorization and accreditation by the relevant faith group/community
• Level 6 degree or demonstrable equivalent experience

Desirable

• Postgraduate certificate/diploma in healthcare chaplaincy

Experience

Essential

• Substantial experience in hospital and community based settings.
• Experience of community based pastoral care
• Experience of visit-based working within an NHS setting
• Experience of working with palliative and end of life care

Special Skills and Knowledge

Essential

• Extensive experience and demonstrable skills in pastoral care.
• Ability to work in difficult and or distressing circumstances
• Knowledge of and sensitivity to a range of religions and faiths.
• Knowledge of Equality and Diversity issues
• Knowledge of ethical issues
• Knowledge of the NHS and current issues
• Presentation Skills & IT Skills

Desirable

• Counselling experience

Special Requirements

Essential

• Good inter-personal, communication skills and self-knowledge.
• Ability to work alone and as a representative of an ecumenical team.
• Ability to participate on the on call rota
• Able to be present, at short notice, and to arrive within 1 hour to any site in the trust

Statutory Registration

Essential

• Ordained and accredited minister of their respective faith group or community

Employer details

Employer name

County Durham & Darlington NHS Foundation Trust

Address

University Hospital Of North Durham

North Road

Durham

DH1 5TW

Any attachments will be accessible after you click to apply.

C9439-24-1153