Local NHS Trust hosts conference focusing on spirituality in healthcare

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South West Yorkshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, in partnership with the University of Huddersfield is hosting a conference on 1st July 2015 to explore the concept of spirituality and its links to healthcare.

The conference will explore the definitions of spirituality and the opportunity to integrate it in to health practices. Local people as well as spiritual organisations, faith based organisations and people working in healthcare are invited to attend this unique event.

During the conference, Mike Gartland, head of pastoral and spiritual care at the Trust will also share information about a new initiative being pioneered by the organisation that aims to build connections with local spiritual organisations and respond more effectively to local health needs.

‘Spirit in Mind’ will be a platform to raise awareness about the importance that spirituality can have on a person’s wellbeing and the different sources of support available throughout local communities.

Mike explained, “Spirituality can have a huge impact on a person’s wellbeing. There is no agreed definition for spirituality, it is a term that can describe a person’s search for understanding, meaning and purpose.

“The support available through spiritual organisations, including faith based organisations, can help people to build relationships and connections with others, boost their self esteem and build emotional resilience. It can have a particular impact on people’s mental wellbeing and we’ll be exploring these links at the conference in July.

“I would encourage spiritual organisations throughout Wakefield as well as local people, healthcare professionals and those with an interest in spirituality to come along to our conference.”

The conference will be held on 1st July 2015 at the University of Huddersfield from 9.30am – 4.30pm. Key note speakers include Dr Sarah Eagger, consultant psychiatrist and executive member of the Royal College of Psychiatrists Special Interest Group in Spirituality. Presentations will also be made by lecturers from the University of Huddersfield and staff working at the Trust.

All attendees will need to book their place on the conference. The conference is free to attend for any NHS professional, service user or carer. All other attendees will be asked to pay £25 to attend.

To find out more about booking your place at the conference or Spirit in Mind visit swyt.co/spiritinmind

Local NHS Trust hosts conference focusing on spirituality in healthcare

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