Spiritual care FAQs

Find out the answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about the spiritual care service at The Christie, including how to get support.

You can visit us at department 57 if you are able to.

You can also contact the chaplaincy office on 0161 446 3097.

You can also email the spiritual care service for non-urgent enquiries, prayer requests and requests for patients and their loved ones at the-christie.spiritualcare@nhs.net

If you prefer, you can ask a member of staff or volunteer to contact the chaplaincy office on your behalf.

If you have an urgent need for the spiritual care service, please call The Christie switchboard on 0161 446 3000 and ask for the on-call chaplain. Christian chaplains are permanently on-call.

We also have Muslim, Jewish and Buddhist on-call chaplains who are available as much as possible.

For inpatients, we aim to follow up on referrals within 24 hours on Mondays to Fridays. We follow up on urgent referrals on the same day every day of the week.

For outpatients, we are happy to arrange an appointment time that is convenient for you.

The chaplain or chaplaincy representative will never make assumptions about what you might want or need. They will never impose anything upon you. They will always begin by asking how they can help you.

If you, or your friend or loved one, are not available when the chaplain visits, they will always leave a card. This will give you details of when they intend to visit again.

The chaplain will always offer the possibility of ongoing support after your initial appointment and will discuss this with you.

There are other support services available at The Christie.

  • The cancer information centre in the Oak Road area of The Christie can offer support and a listening ear. They also have information about support services and groups in various locations.
  • There are a range of patient support services available, including support groups and help with employment and benefits.
  • The Christie psycho-oncology team provides a range of psychological and emotional support.
  • The complementary therapy team can support patients and carers through all stages of their cancer journey.
  • In an emergency, mental health support is available via your local A&E or through your GP’s out of hours service.
  • The Maggie’s Centre offers a range of support and advice.
  • Your GP may be able to offer your access to counselling and other therapies.

Last updated: March 2023