Volunteer Chaplain

Providing a confidential non-judgemental listening ear to Residents and Staff. Supporting those wishing to develop their spiritual journey from a Christian perspective. The role will be based across one of our hostels in Watford, Borehamwood, Bishop's Stortford, Welwyn Garden City, Hatfield or High Wycombe, Activities include: Proactively engaging with Residents and staff to build safe relationships and trust Offering a ‘listening ear’ to all and giving emotional support Sensitively discerning when to offer prayer and support from a Christian perspective, and when to use faith based language Be inclusive and welcoming to people of all religious faiths and none, referring people to other faith communities as appropriate Working alongside support staff, volunteers & local agencies Maintaining records of support and feeding back concerns about Resident welfare to Staff/Line Manager. Attend regular volunteer team meetings Being proactive in seeking spiritual and emotional support for your own benefit as this is a challenging role. Additional activities could include: Facilitating group work for example: Retreat Programme, Bible Study, prayer or Mental Health Support. Welcoming new Residents by phone or in person Leading or helping with Chaplaincy lead events: Easter/Christmas activities, Remembrance Services Being an ambassador for YMCA’s mission in local Churches Skills/Qualities/Experience: Be a good and active listener who can support others Be of a friendly, welcoming and cheerful disposition Self-motivated, reliable and punctual Sensitivity and courage to care for people experiencing a range of distressing situations including: grief, trauma, poor mental health, substance misuse, suicidal thoughts. A commitment to your own spiritual development A good understanding of the Christian faith, as well as some understanding of other faith traditions Ability to use both faith and non-faith based language, as appropriate Good communication skills in English; in person & over the phone A willingness to learn new things and get stuck in Ability to maintain confidentiality Ability to work as part of a team Respect the Christian ethos of the YMCA and uphold its values Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have Training Support: A full induction to the service and specific site will be provided A one day ‘Chaplaincy Essentials’ training, plus a menu of additional training will be made available Online training: Safeguarding (Adults & Young People), Fire Awareness, Manual Handling Ongoing support and regular 1:1 meetings with your line-manager Team meetings and social events Mileage and expenses may be payable You will need 2 x references and a DBS (we will apply for and fund this).