Humanists consider that everyone needs compassion, particularly when they are facing difficult circumstances. Being able to talk to a like-minded, empathic and non-judgmental person in a confidential way can be enormously beneficial to one’s well-being.
For this reason, Humanists UK pioneered the development of a network of non-religious pastoral carers. These carers work alongside chaplains in hospitals, hospices, prisons, universities and other institutions. Some Farnham Humanists are part of the network, providing pastoral care in our local hospitals/hospice, Surrey University and the police. They find the role to be very rewarding and fulfilling. Being trusted to support and help someone at a time of difficulty is an enormous privilege.
Increasingly institutions are realising the benefits of including non-religious pastoral carers as members of what have traditionally been wholly religious teams. Farnham Humanists want to respond to the growing demand for our services and, at the same time, help reduce the significant inequality in provision which still exists. There are opportunities for Farnham Humanists to volunteer in Send prison and local hospitals like Frimley Park, The Royal Surrey, Farnham Road Hospital and the Phyllis Tuckwell Hospice.
The Non-Religious Pastoral Support Network (NRPSN) offers induction training for people with non-religious beliefs. This training is free to Humanist UK members. The core of the training takes place over a weekend, successful participants become accredited members of the Network. The Network provides lots of support for its members and you will get help and encouragement from Farnham Humanists.
To find out more about our local pastoral care activities, please contact David Savage on 01252 718955 or david.savage@nrpsn.org.uk
If you feel that your local hospice, hospital or prison would benefit from the empathic care and humanist values you can bring please contact Simon O’Donoghue on 020 7324 3069 or simon@nrpsn.org.uk.
To find out more about our work and how you can become one of our accredited pastoral support volunteers please see go to http://nrpsn.org.uk/
As well as our members volunteering as individuals for a number of organisations and giving Volunteer Non-Religious Pastoral Care, other areas members give time are: