Are you looking for a meaningful and fulfilling career in spiritual care? The Hywel Dda University Health Board is offering a full-time training opportunity as an Assistant Chaplain based in Carmarthenshire, Wales.
This role is designed for individuals with a passion for spiritual and emotional support, who are committed to inclusive, person-centered care in a healthcare setting.
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Job Details:
- Position: Assistant Chaplain (Trainee)
- Job Type: Full-Time
- Location: Carmarthenshire, Wales, UK
- Salary: £23,159 – £24,701 per year
- Employer: Hywel Dda University Health Board
- Visa Sponsorship: Available (Skilled Worker Visa eligibility applies)
Role Overview:
As a trainee Assistant Chaplain, you’ll be part of the Spiritual Care Team at the Royal United Hospital (RUH), supporting patients, families, and staff from all faiths or none. This role offers a one-year structured training programme with continuous professional supervision and support, including internal and external placements and contributions from speakers across various disciplines.
You will gain experience across a wide range of services including Emergency, Elderly Care, Palliative Care, Oncology, Critical Care, and Women and Children’s Services.
Key Responsibilities:
- Provide spiritual, emotional, and religious support tailored to individual values, beliefs, and backgrounds.
- Work compassionately with people in times of illness, bereavement, or crisis.
- Engage in professional training and reflective practice throughout the year.
- Assist with worship services and support for religious observance when appropriate.
- Collaborate with multi-faith and non-religious team members and community faith leaders.
About the RUH Spiritual Care Team:
The team serves all individuals regardless of religion or belief, guided by the principles of equality, diversity, and inclusion. The RUH promotes a culture of learning, compassion, and innovation, with a strong focus on staff well-being through mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical health support programs.
Benefits:
- Deeply rewarding work supporting people during vulnerable times
- Opportunities for professional development and specialized training
- Exposure to diverse clinical and community settings
- Supportive multi-disciplinary team environment
- Pathway to senior chaplaincy roles through experience and continued education
Essential Requirements:
- Recognized lay minister or ordained priest, in good standing with a faith community or authorizing body.
- Commitment to ongoing professional development.
- Ability to engage with people of all faiths and beliefs in a respectful and inclusive manner.
- Strong interpersonal, communication, and reflective skills.
- Emotional and spiritual resilience in high-pressure or distressing situations.
Desirable Qualifications & Experience:
- Healthcare Chaplaincy training or experience.
- Membership of the College of Health Care Chaplains (CHCC) or UK Board for Health Care Chaplaincy (UKBHC).
- Experience in counseling, debriefing, or crisis care.
- Understanding of NHS spiritual care frameworks and guidance.
Additional Information:
- This position requires an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Check.
- Applicants requiring a Skilled Worker visa will be considered.
- Candidates must provide criminal record certificates for countries they’ve lived in for over 12 months within the past 10 years (per UK immigration rules).
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is the average salary of chaplains in the UK?
The average salary for a chaplain is approximately £27,332/year, with entry-level positions starting around £23,410.
What does a chaplain assistant do?
They support the delivery of spiritual care under the supervision of a senior chaplain, offering comfort, counseling, and faith-specific services to individuals in need.
How do I become a chaplain in the UK?
You must be accredited by a recognized faith community, with qualifications in pastoral or spiritual care, and ideally, experience in a relevant setting like healthcare.
