Uniting AgeWell has helped pioneer a new training resource to help incorporate spirituality into end-of-life care across a range of sectors.
The Spirituality of Dying Workshop was developed in partnership with Meaningful Ageing Australia, Uniting Care and Uniting, and unveiled to the community on 13 May, ahead of Palliative Care Week (19-25 May).
“We recognise that delivering spiritual care is not confined to Chaplains,” Uniting AgeWell Director of Mission John Broughton said.
“All staff and volunteers involved in end-of-life care contribute to that experience being as enriching as it can be for both the person being cared for and their support network.”
The 60-minute introductory workshop and resources will support employers in the health, aged care and community services sectors to train staff and volunteers on the importance of spirituality for human living and dying.
It also provides information about making meaningful connections with people who are coming to the end of their life, along with their families and care team.
“In our multi-cultural Australian society, part of this care means being open to the rich variety of cultural practices and rituals that can especially come to the fore at the end of a person’s life,” John said.
“Spiritual care is core to quality end-of-life care and one that many people have not had the chance to explore, so this resource aims to support people to do that.”
Uniting AgeWell Chaplains will be among the first in Australia to learn how to facilitate the Spirituality of Dying Workshops.