The guidelines acknowledge that healthcare chaplaincy has long played a key role in the NHS and that it is becoming increasingly important to understand and provide for the diverse spiritual and faith beliefs that exist throughout Wales today.

They aim to ensure NHS organisations in Wales provide access to spiritual and religious care consistently to those who need it, regardless of their beliefs, cultural background or lifestyle.

Spiritual care services include the availability of a chaplain or spiritual care-giver to offer advice and guidance, facilities in which to practice religion or faith such as a prayer room and the understanding of different healthcare practices required for different beliefs and faiths.

Mrs Hart said:

“Many people, religious or not, need support in their life, especially in times of crisis or when they are extremely vulnerable and in need of comfort.  It would be easy to assume that people with religious belief leave their faith at the door when they enter hospital or go to see their doctor, but we know that the opposite is often true.

“I want the NHS in Wales to be aware of and care for the diverse spiritual, cultural and religious needs of all the people who use services.

"By supporting people in this way when they are most in need complements other support from health professionals and indeed can reduce the long-term cost and pressure on the health service.

“I am expecting all NHS organisations across Wales to work towards implementing these standards and provide support to their staff so it becomes part of the day-to-day work of the health service.

“I have discussed the guidance and standards with senior figures in the Church and they are supportive. I will review the standards in a year to see if they are working well. “

http://wales.gov.uk/newsroom/healthandsocialcare/2010/100525spirituality...