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Pastoral care is an integral part of the care services provided by UnitingCare Ageing. Within UnitingCare Ageing, the ministry of pastoral care and chaplaincy is part of the mission of the Uniting Church. Christian care expresses the love of God and affirms that each person is created in the image of God, is unique, and is of infinite worth.

Pastoral care is ‘being with’ people and sharing their life’s journey and embraces an approach to ageing that is holistic and person-centred. Religion plays an important part for many, although not all people express their spirituality through organised religion.  Spirituality can be expressed through church worship, prayer, meditation, music, art or the environment.

UnitingCare Ageing acknowledges and supports spiritual and cultural diversity and offers appropriate spiritual care for people from other faith traditions and supports those who profess no faith. It recognises that people have emotional, religious, sexual, psychological and other needs, and that people can be assisted through listening, pastoral conversation, pastoral counselling, advocacy, prayers, reading of the Scriptures, other sacred texts and liturgical services.

Pastoral care is specifically undertaken by Chaplains, Pastoral Care Workers, Pastoral Care Volunteers, Visiting Clergy, and other pastoral visitors. Chaplains bring a theological perspective to the philosophy of care for older and frail people. A Chaplain can be an ordained person or an appropriately accredited lay person. Caring Staff, by the nature of their close bond with residents and clients, may also provide pastoral care.

In accordance with its Vision, Mission, Values, and INSPIRED CARE Principles, UnitingCare Ageing considers the provision of pastoral care and chaplaincy services as an essential component of all services and facilities.