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Members of the core team also contribute a Chaplaincy perspective
on a wide range of issues within the prison such as diversity, race
relations, drugs strategy anti-bullying, resettlement and staff
training.
The Multi-Faith Chaplaincy
In recognition of the wide diversity of faith backgrounds in the
prison population, HMP Altcourse is fully committed to the 'Multi-Faith
Chaplaincy'. This means:
- Team members from different faith backgrounds should respect, value
and support each other's ministry.
- All prisoners who wish to practice their faith are treated fairly.
- Chaplaincy staff and volunteers from all faith backgrounds receive
appropriate training and support.
- All staff in the prison should understand the importance of faith
to those who practice it and all permitted faiths are treated with
equal respect.
The integrity of all faith groups should be maintained.
Statutory Requirements
Chaplaincy has a duty of care to the whole establishment. As part
of this duty staff are required by Home Office regulations to make
a daily visit to any prisoner held in segregation or who is resident
in the healthcare centre. We are also required to provide for the
practice of any faith permitted in prison by finding a minister
and providing a suitable environment for groups to meet for worship
and teaching. The issue of religious practice in prisons is under
constant review and we take advice as required from the Prisoner
Administration Group, Chaplaincy Headquarters and accredited representatives
of faith communities to make sure we are doing everything we should
to support prisoners in the practice of their faith.
Pastoral Care
Pastoral care is a major part of our daily work. People who are
bereaved, having relationship problems or just feeling the pressure
of being (or working) in prison often feel the need to 'talk to
someone'. Our job is to provide sympathetic and non-judgemental
short-term support to anyone who needs it, regardless of faith background.
We are happy to be contacted in any case of need, whether emotional,
spiritual or practical. The Chaplaincy operates within the wider
prison team and if we are not able to help, we can probably find
someone who can.
Classes and groups
We are continually developing the range of opportunities we offer
to explore faith, spirituality and personal development. All courses
in the Chaplaincy are offered in the context that:
Faith is important.
We recognise the validity of accepted moral codes and acknowledge
the possibility that there is a higher power or ideal against which
our actions can be judged.
We do not give up hope on anyone.
Currently on offer or in development are Alpha, Bible Study, Buddhism,
Choices for Change, Explaining Paganism and Qur'an classes.
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