The Pastoral Visiting Team support the work of the clergy by visiting people who would like someone to talk to for whatever reason. Members visit people in hospital, in residential homes and in their own homes. Some are authorised to take Holy Communion to those who are no longer able to attend church. Many are trained in specific areas of pastoral care including bereavement, dementia, depression, suicide, coping with stress, mental health problems, eating disorders and age related issues. Confidentiality is paramount and team members do not divulge the personal problems of those they visit.
The team organise occasional workshops on issues such as dementia and Alzheimer’s, drug and alcohol awareness and domestic abuse. These sessions are led by the Diocesan Health and Wellbeing Adviser and are open to all.