Chaplaincy has always been at the heart of Faith at Work in Worcestershire (FWW), but does it make any difference?
In January and February of this year FWW undertook a survey, speaking to over 100 people to try to measure the impact of workplace chaplaincy. The survey looked at three key groups – those whom chaplains visit in workplaces, the chaplains themselves and their churches.
The feedback has provided real insight into what people think about chaplaincy, most of it very positive. It was found that having a regular visit from a chaplain is welcomed and valued. Those at work feel supported and cared for and that, in their chaplain, they have someone they can confide in. As one person said, “The chaplain puts a smile on our faces, a lovely person. It is good to have someone to listen. We all need a chaplain.”From chaplains it was discovered how much chaplaincy helped them put their faith into action, and pushed them to find new depths and meaning of that faith. The conversations with FWW partner churches likewise showed how chaplaincy is a critical way of being outward looking in mission, engaging with people where they are.
Dick Johnson, FWW Development Officer, said: "The survey shows how much people value their chaplain and what a good news story this is for all concerned. This is the Church in action which, in our present world, is needed all the more urgently."
The survey shows that what chaplaincy achieves should be celebrated and that, though chaplaincy is very difficult at the moment because of COVID-19, when the economy does resume, however different it then is, chaplaincy will be even more needed – and valued – than it ever has been.
The full Survey Report, and an Executive Summary, are available to download and read on the FWW website.
NB: The picture illustrating this story was taken pre-lockdown.
