ABSTRACT

The Foundation for Workplace Spirituality suggests that although in the workplace the authors talk of 'team spirit' and 'the spirit of the company', they rarely link these terms to the underlying essence of spirituality. It asserts that 'Honouring our spiritual nature in the workplace is not only good for our souls, but also good for the workplace, too'. It is clear that there have to be agreed standards of professional practice, both for the safety and well-being of patients and carers, and to allow for the auditing of the efficacy of service delivery. The healthcare team should have regular opportunities for meeting together to explore all aspects of teamworking, to further develop good working practices and create and enhance a more satisfying working environment. The UK Board of Healthcare Chaplaincy acknowledges in its Spiritual and Religious Care Capabilities and Competences for Healthcare Chaplains that, in terms of 'institutional practice', the chaplain has a vital staff support role.