Incoming Archbishop Highlights Community’s Role in Elevating Healthcare Quality
Dame Sarah recently highlighted the vital role of community in enhancing healthcare quality during her address. She emphasized that initiatives such as churches providing regular lunches can significantly impact both physical and mental health.
Community Support and Healthcare
According to Dame Sarah, these community initiatives often serve as essential supplements to medical interventions. They not only provide nourishment but also promote health check-ups and emotional support. At St. Thomas’ Hospital, where she began her training, the chapel offers comfort and a sanctuary for both staff and patients. The multi-faith chaplaincy team is available to offer support, listen, or simply sit with those facing life’s challenges.
Play Therapy and Recovery
Adjacent to the chapel is the children’s hospital, which employs specialists in play therapy. This approach helps mitigate the anxiety associated with hospital stays and enhances the recovery process. Dame Sarah observed that community aid could address the underlying causes of many hospital admissions, thus alleviating pressure on healthcare services.
Holistic Care in London
In her own diocese in London, community efforts are successfully delivering holistic support across various environments. She mentioned churches like SAINT in Hackney, which offers regular lunches. These gatherings attract individuals from diverse backgrounds, providing not only a welcoming atmosphere but also health check-ups, and, importantly, reflecting the compassion central to Christianity.
Advocating for Compassionate Care
Dame Sarah expressed her commitment to carrying the empathy she developed as a nurse into her new role. She believes that the Church should act as a healing presence, fostering unity during divisive times and providing care for those in need.
Upcoming Installation as Archbishop
Dame Sarah is set to become the 106th Archbishop of Canterbury on January 28 at Canterbury Cathedral. She was selected to succeed Justin Welby, who resigned over a year ago following controversies related to an abuse scandal. Notably, the Church of England is currently reviewing a complaint against her concerning her response to an abuse allegation.
As the head of state, King Charles is the head of the Church of England, while the Archbishop of Canterbury serves as its senior bishop and the spiritual leader of the global Anglican Communion.
