RCN CONGRESS LATEST: Nurses slam chaplaincy cuts

Cuts in hospital chaplaincy services were condemned by nurses at the RCN Congress.

Delegates heard that chaplaincy services were being reduced as a result of financial pressure on trusts.

Proposing the motion, called a loss of faith, BJ Waltho of East Dorset Branch, said: 'This is a direct consequence of funding cuts. Chaplaincy services are being reduced by 55% since 2005.'

Ms Waltho said that chaplains were able to provide invaluable spiritual guidance to patients – which can help nurses dealing with extremely ill patients.

'[The cuts] will put additional pressure on already overstretched nurses. we need more support,' she said.