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These are some "Frequently Asked Questions" about NACP. They will explain a little more about what we do and why we do it. Simply click on one of the titles or on "Read more..." to read that particular item in full.
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Chaplains are drawn from all faiths although at the moment they are predominantly Christian. Chaplains may be volunteers giving between a minimum of two hours a week. Their expenses are usually covered by the police. Other chaplains are full or part time paid chaplains sponsored and paid for by their faith community.
If you are interested in becoming a police chaplain you should pursue this through your own faith community in the first instance. You will need to have had a number of years experience in a pastoral care situation and be willing to minister to all those in the police service regardless of their beliefs or lack of them. |
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Right from the early days of the police service, it was realised that much of police work, by its very nature, is stressful and can be de-humanising. In those early days local clergy did what they could to support staff and help keep a balanced perspective of life. Working in today’s police service is increasingly challenging, but now there is a greater awareness of the effects of prolonged exposure to stressful situations. It is recognised that, more than ever, at times individuals may need some help to be able to keep things in perspective. It is recognised, too, that everybody is a complete person: body, mind and spirit. Police work can affect us, our physical and mental well-being, as well as, perhaps, our own deeply held standards and beliefs. As part of this holistic care, chaplains work alongside the other supporting agencies who work within the force structures. The basic role of the chaplain is to care: to care for the individuals within each force and to care for the organisation itself. Chaplains are in a unique position because they are not part of the structure, nor are they required to report in detail what they do. Their work is totally confidential. |
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- They drop in, on a regular basis, around shift change time or other times when staff are available. In this way, they become a familiar friend.
- They accompany staff out on duty as a resource and a way of getting alongside staff in the working environment. (All chaplains have suitable personal, protective equipment.)
- They are available for private conversations, either on or off duty in a suitable environment.
- They attend area and departmental meetings, staff training events and briefings as appropriate.
Most chaplains give their services on a voluntary basis so they may not always be immediately available. |
- They make themselves available to people who need someone to talk to someone in confidence.
- By their on-going presence, they become aware of the stresses & strains of life in their force and try to help staff at all levels by being a critical friend.
- All chaplains will pray regularly for their force and for the situations and members of staff they are involved with.
- If appropriate, they visit staff who are ill at home or in hospital and they offer care to families and friends.
- They get involved if a member of staff dies, particularly if this is whilst in service.
- They lead formal religious services such as carol services or memorial services. They may also officiate at weddings and baptisms, if appropriate.
- Although chaplains are appointed specifically to care for all staff, they will, of course, help with victims or offenders if necessary and will certainly offer advice on matters of religious faith.
- They are available as an operational resource to officers; for example, in situations of distress or death.
Chaplains don’t try to convert you! |
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Questions?
