Mental Health Chaplaincy in the UK During COVID-19: A Personal Reflection

Abstract

The response to COVID-19 in the United Kingdom led to dramatic changes in the nature and practice of healthcare chaplaincy; arguably the greatest changes have been in the area of mental health chaplaincy. This article provides a personal reflection by a mental health chaplain describing the effects on them, their practice, and their NHS Trust. It shows that chaplains are adapting to these changes. A conclusion outlines possible future responses, since the changing healthcare landscape will continue to be affected by this pandemic for some time to come.