Vision and mission statement

 We want to express Christ’s love, as part of the church, in public, personal and prophetic ways through a team of Chaplains, through the initiating and supporting of outreach activities and by encouraging all people who work, shop or are entertained in Watford.

 

It is recognised that a workforce that has a sense of well being is a happy and more productive work force. Chaplaincy from its early days has traditionally had its roots in the armed forces, hospital, hospice, prison and emergency services. Overtime it has adapted to the changing world of work having historically provided chaplaincy to manufacturing and industry. Today workplace Chaplaincy engages with people at work across the whole of economy in manufacturing, retail, leisure, and transport.

In our rapidly changing world the workplace can by its very nature, be stressful and can be de-humanising and companies that care for their workforce and develop their culture and values often benefit from a motivated workforce and added value.

As part of this holistic approach, chaplains complement, supplement and work closely with occupational health and human resources within the company environment. The basic role of the chaplain is to care for the individuals within the company and to care for the organisation itself. A chaplain is in a unique position because he or she totally independent and is not required to report in detail what they do and who they see.

· They make themselves available to people who need someone to talk to in confidence.

· By their on-going presence, they become aware of the stresses & strains of life in the organisation and try to help staff at all levels by being a critical friend.

· Where the company has a policy of supporting and encouraging Christian or Multi Faith fellowships, the chaplain will provide support and maintain contact with each fellowship.

· A Chaplain will offer support if a member of staff is injured or dies, particularly if this is whilst in service.

· They may lead formal faith celebrations or religious services such as carol services or memorial services.

· If appropriate, the Chaplain will make arrangements to visit staff who are ill, either at home or in hospital and they will offer care and support to families and friends.

· Chaplains will pray regularly for the workforce and for the situations and members of staff they are involved with.

 

What Do Chaplains Do?

Their work is totally confidential.

The modern work environment is increasingly challenging, but there is also a greater awareness of the effects of prolonged exposure to stressful situations. It is recognised that, more than ever, at times individuals may need some help to be able to keep things in perspective. It is recognised, too, that everybody is a complete person: body, mind and spirit. Our work can affect us, our physical and mental well being, as well as, perhaps, our own deeply held standards and beliefs.

Why Chaplaincy?

The case for Chaplaincy

· prophetic feedback to those who lead the organisation.

· contact with a wide range of local networks that could be beneficial to the company and its employees.

· a listening ear as well as the ability to understand the stresses and strains of those working at all levels in the company.

· a service available to all employees from the most senior manager to the most junior employee including directors and non executive Directors.

· an independent confidential service for all staff regardless of faith and creed that can help to provide a happier and more contented workforce.

WTCC provides:

· Chaplains do not evangelise but witness to God’s love for all people regardless of colour of creed.

· They will if requested attend meetings, staff training events andbriefings as appropriate and if invited.

They are responsible too and part of the Town Centre Chaplaincy which manages them on a day to day basis.

Chaplains come from the local Watford churches, they are all trained and have an ongoing professional development programme.

Who Are The Chaplains?

· They are available for private conversations, either at work, at home or in a suitable private environment.

· They get alongside staff in the working environment in a way that does not interfere with a person’s normal work pattern.

· They visit on a regular basis, around shift change time or other times when staff are available. In this way, they become a familiar friend.

How Do Chaplains Operate?

· They are available as an additional resource to HR/OH, for example in situations of distress or death.

 · Chaplains are appointed to care for all staff, of all faiths and none. They will, if requested to do so by an individual member of staff, discuss any matters related to the Christian faith or signpost individuals to advisers of other faiths if that is appropriate and requested. Council.

They may also officiate at weddings, baptisms and funerals if appropriate.