Workplace Chaplains of different faiths and denominations met in Ely to share their experiences, network and hear what Cambridgeshire businesses are doing to meet the spiritual and pastoral needs of employees.

Newly-formed charity Cambridgeshire Workplace Chaplaincy, held a launch event that brought together different faith bodies, employers and supporters.

Gillian Beasley, CEO of Cambridgeshire County Council and Peterborough City Council, spoke to chaplains and supporters describing how important an independent voice in the form of a chaplain is to council staff.

Around 5,250 people are employed - with 80 per cent being women.

Gillian explained: “Workplace chaplaincy offers a vital frontline support and are safe spaces for staff because it is independent of the organisation and from HR. The service allows early interventions, a way of ironing out the mind, giving calm and clarity to someone in a safe and independent environment.”

The Rt. Rev. Dr David Thomson, Bishop of Huntingdon also addressed delegates and was pleased to hear from chaplains and employers.

Bishop David, reflecting on the Lord’s Prayer, said that: “There are three key ways churches can play a part and make a difference to workplace chaplains; firstly, by prayer for them and their work, secondly by encouraging people to support them personally and as trustees, and thirdly by standing up alongside them for the Christian principle of putting others’ needs before our own, so that every day is a sort of Christmas Day, one of giving and receiving rather than grabbing and getting.”

For more information visit www.cambsworkplacechaplaincy.org.uk