Opportunity and Conflict: Evidence-Based Practice and the Modernization of Healthcare Chaplaincy

Abstract

Summary The first part of this paper draws attention to the document Caring for the Spirit: A Strategy for the Chaplaincy and Spiritual Healthcare Workforce (2003), which concerns the development and modernization of Chaplaincy and Spiritual Healthcare in England. I outline its main themes and offer a short critique. The second part of the paper is a response to an article written by Chris Swift (Contact 144) which focused on the chaplain's professional identity and the need for theological re-engagement. I suggest that chaplaincy should positively embrace an evidence-based approach, placing it alongside theological re-engagement by seeing them as complementary. Here chaplains need to engage critically with an evidence-based culture through prioritizing a narrative and multi-professional approach to practice. Case studies, multi-disciplinary education and a prophetic approach are offered as supporting evidence.