Competencies

An explanation of the Chaplaincy Competencies

Why are there several different sets of Competencies? (See also under ‘Standards’)

The AHPCC pioneered professional standards for chaplains working in hospice / palliative care in 2003, revising them in 2006. A set of competencies was also developed in partnership with MCCC (Marie Curie Cancer Care) in 2004; this outlined what would be expected of anyone working in palliative care. When NHS Scotland adapted the AHPCC standards, they also produced a corresponding set of Competencies, specifically geared to healthcare chaplains, though working in any area of health. In 2009, the UKBHC (UK Board of Healthcare Chaplaincy) adopted both these from NHS Scotland. In 2010 NHS Wales also adapted the NHS Scotland version, while altering some of the terminology.

Which Competencies should I use?

All the published Chaplaincy Competencies are substantially the same.

How do the Competences relate to the Chaplaincy Standards? (See also under ‘Standards’)

Each set of Chaplaincy Standards addresses the nature and quality of the service that chaplains should be providing, while the corresponding Competencies relate to the individual chaplain's role and ability to provide these services. In each section of the Competencies, there are links that show which standards each competency applies to. At present, the Competencies apply to the basic 'qualified chaplain' level. These may later be expanded to cover leadership or specialist aspects (e.g. palliative care).

   Marie Curie (2004) Spiritual & Religious Care Competencies in Specialist Palliative Care
   Marie Curie (2004) Spiritual & Religious Care Competencies Audit Tool
   NHS Scotland (2007) Spiritual and Religious Care Capabilities and Competences for Healthcare Chaplains
   UKBHC (2010) Spiritual and Religious Care Capabilities and Competences for Healthcare Chaplains
   Guidance on Capabilities and Competences for Healthcare Chaplains / Spiritual Caregivers in Wales 2010