Hospital chaplains provide spiritual, pastoral, and emotional support to patients, families, and staff, regardless of faith or belief — including those with no religious belief at all. Chaplaincy is available in most NHS hospitals and is free to access. During a critical illness or bereavement, a chaplain can offer a quiet, non-judgmental presence, help with practical matters such as contacting a faith leader, or simply sit with a family member who needs someone to talk to. Co-survivors spending long periods in a hospital environment may find chaplaincy support valuable even if they do not consider themselves religious. Chaplains can be contacted through ward staff or directly via the hospital’s chaplaincy department.
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