Birmingham Women’s and Children’s NHS Foundation Trust’s Chaplaincy team launches the first virtual spiritual room in the country
Birmingham Women’s and Children’s NHS Foundation Trust’s (BWC) Chaplaincy team has launched, what is believed to be, the NHS’s first virtual spiritual room for our Muslim patients and families.
It offers a 360-degree view that allows people to interact and see how it can support their needs.
A huge number of the patients and families BWC cares for follow the Islamic faith and the Trust’s dedicated Chaplaincy team has created the new resource to help offer the same support they would receive within the community with their religious needs.
The room at the Children’s Hospital is available to view and interact with 24 hours a day to allow patients and families the opportunity to familiarise themselves with what is available.
The aim is to offer reassurance that all prayers and ceremonies can be observed within the hospital setting.
Zamir Hussain, BWC Muslim Chaplain, has been at the forefront of setting up the new resource.
She said: “Having a child admitted into hospital often feels daunting for many parents and loved ones. As a Muslim Chaplain, I’ve heard concerns in terms of how religious and cultural needs can be met.
“I have worked hard for a significant number of years, building resources to train staff in regard to Muslim care and adapted this work for this new online and virtual resource.
“We want to ensure those we care for and support are aware of our services for them to help alleviate any fears or worries they may be feeling.”
The pioneering initiative has been supported by Birmingham Children’s Hospital Charity.
Plans are in place for further virtual prayer rooms of different faiths to be developed and shared by the Chaplaincy team.
View the new virtual prayer rooms on the Trust website.