JourneyOnline
THE Pastoral Care Department of The Wesley Hospital has long been known for its care and support for patients and their families, but is perhaps less well known for supporting the more than 2000 staff on campus.
For the most part, these staff are recognisable and accessible, and therefore readily supported.
However, over 400 theatre staff work tirelessly in that most vital part of the hospital, largely behind the scenes.
The Pastoral Care team has become increasingly intentional in building supportive relationships with staff, while continuing to care for patients and their families.
The department brought to the attention of the Wesley Hospital Executive the need for ministry to theatre staff .
As a result, chaplain Rev Keren Seto began a regular theatre chaplaincy in June.
"I was so excited when I was told that I was going into the theatres," Ms Seto said.
"The demands of a high-pressure environment such as an acute hospital are relentless," says Ms Seto, "and perhaps no more so than in the theatres, where between 145 and 150 procedures are carried out on any given day.
"Add to these stresses the stuff of everyday living and it's not difficult to understand why we want our part in ensuring that the theatre staff know they are not only valued but also supported in their work and in their lives."
Photo : Left to right: Chaplain Rev Keren Seto with theatre staff Garry Botham and Heidi Kruger. Photo courtesy of UnitingCare Health
