South Yorkshire Workplace Chaplaincy

How we do what we do - some of our activities

Workplace chaplaincy. Chaplains to a workplace visit on a sessional basis, typically between one session per fortnight and 3 sessions per week, depending on circumstances. After going through a careful selection and induction process, they are trained to offer confidential and independent support to people in the workplace. Chaplains are available for people of all faiths and none, if their services are wanted. There are more details on the workplace page of this site.
Understanding. Chaplains naturally see what is going on around them in the workplace with the eyes of faith. SYWC's task is to help anyone to relate the circumstances of work and of the wider economy to the Christian Gospel, the 'Good News'. For example, SYWC provides study materials on 'technology, life and faith' and takes part in the education of ministers.
Action. Sometimes as we try to understand situations, we become aware of where we believe God's justice leads. We strive, with all who share our concerns, to follow that lead. From time to time we take part in campaigns such as the Living Wage Campaign and 'Work-Life Balance'.
Church links. We are not alone: we are part of the Church and develop links between churches and the workplace. Sometimes this means speaking up and getting work-related issues onto the agendas of the councils and committees of the churches. We publicise our work through the magazine, Workplace.
Resources. We have to make sure we can continue to do what we do. This means we have to make sure we have enough money, the telephone is answered, the computers are up to date and so on. These tasks are less glamorous than some, but vital to SYWC's front line work.