Pastoral Care

Whole person care ethos

David Stanford-Beale, was born in Ashford in 1938 and moved to Pembury in 1969. He is married to Joan and has three children and six granchildren. After leaving Ashford Grammar School he joined the Post Office Telephones, retiring in 1990, since then he has gained experience working with churches and other Christian organisations of many different denominations and was appointed Chaplain in December 2008.

He holds Diplomas in Theology, Clinical and Pastoral Counselling and has at different times served as a team leader in The Samaritans, an assistant Hospital Chaplain, a Lay Preacher, a Christian Counsellor. In addition he has helped run a number of day centres for the elderly and served on the committees of a number of inter-denominational organisations. In these ministries he has gained a wide experience of ministering to the pastoral needs of the handicapped, the sick, the aged and the bereaved.

"My aim as Chaplain is to befriend residents, staff and visitors. To listen to their needs and to offer spititual guidance when it is requested. To encourage and support them, regardless of their background, denomination or religous beliefs." David liases between the residents and the leaders of Churches in the local area. He is also available upon request to meet with those grieving the loss of loved ones.

David visits Cornford House two to three times a week, but when there is a paticular need he can attend at any time if specificaly requested by the Unit Managers to whom such requests should be directed.

In support of our Christian based whole person care ethos, emotional and spiritual support is considered vital to the general well being of each resident. The residents’ charter of rights includes the right to have their religious needs accepted and respected and although a Christian based home, non-Christian needs can be met.

Every resident has the right to continue to attend their preferred place of worship while they are physically able to do so.

Considerable comfort is often gained from faith in declining years, even with people who have had little to do with their faith since their childhood. It is an important part of the life and routine of the home and many residents benefit from conversation with people connected with religious organizations.

Residents are free to follow the religion of their choice. Ministers visit the home regularly and Sunday Services are held in the home.

The home will facilitate the observance of those religious festivals that are appropriate to the faith of the residents living in the home.

The observance of religious rituals to be carried out prior and post death is assured.

Cultural and religious requirements of each resident are included in their individual care plan.