ABSTRACT

Spiritual awareness and praxis are central aspects of current hospice care. This chapter explores the phenomenon of 'spiritual teamwork' within end of life care with reference to multi-disciplinary team (MDT) working within place of employment – a 16-bed hospice located in West Yorkshire. It argues that spiritual teamwork is a holistic practice which is patient-centred and offers a view of spiritual working and teamwork that is current and relevant to professionals in practice or to interested others. The delivery of spiritual care is an interpersonal activity; it requires relationship. Spiritually-informed presencing and work begins with drawing alongside a person and accompanying compassionately in solidarity. 'Presencing' may be understood as the situating of the spiritual care team member's self sensitively and imaginatively in the world of those being cared for. Supporting staff in their own development and skills is essential to providing excellent spiritual teamwork. The chapter also presents some examples of spiritual teamwork.