The National Secular Society is today arguing that the NHS should stop funding chaplaincy services. The Society claims that £32 million is spent every year by hospital trusts and that money would be better directed elsewhere.

In 2007, research produced by Theos revealed that chaplaincy care since 2005 had been cut by 54,217 hours per annum.

Commenting on the campaign by the National Secular Society, Paul Woolley, Director of Theos, said:

"Hospital chaplaincy plays a vital role in patient care. It’s not an optional extra.

"£32 million pounds is a tiny fraction of the £100 billion NHS annual budget - 0.032%.

"Chaplains give unique support to patients, relatives and staff, especially in times of personal crisis. Our research indicates that chaplaincy care is greatly valued.

"The choice for NHS Trusts is not between the clinical or pastoral needs of patients. Clearly Trusts are under financial pressure, but if they are to provide holistic care the provision of appropriate chaplaincy support must be a priority. " 

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To read about the Theos research conducted in 2007, click here.

To watch Paul Woolley talk about chaplaincy care, click here and scroll down to the last item but one.