This thesis discusses the impact of HIV in Edinburgh on infected individuals, professionals and the Scottish churches. It is grounded in contextual practical theology, offering reflexive responses to evidence gleaned from oral histories. The thesis documents the development of a local agency, Waverley Care, exploring the influences and pressures that contributed to its distinctive ethos. The author was employed as chaplain to people living with HIV from 2000 – 2016; the pastoral and professional relationships that emerged from that ministry form the foundation for the research. Unstructured interviews were conducted and Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis was used to analyse, interpret and reflect on the resultant material. Personal stories and perspectives were shared, both by people living with HIV and by professionals in the field. The impact of living with HIV is shown by discussing issues such as the ongoing impact of HIV-related stigma and the challenges associated with living long-term with the condition. Attention is paid to the challenges arising as a result of multiple bereavements and the resultant spiritual questions that emerge. The impact on physicians is also evidenced, in particular the transition from treating patients before the advent of effective medication, to the situation in 2016 when HIV has been re-classified as a chronic illness. Recommendations on areas of ongoing concern are made for decision makers in public health, the churches and Waverley Care. Deep reflective analysis is offered, using the Stations of the Cross and models from bereavement work to provide frameworks for understanding. The contribution of the Scottish churches to the establishment of support services is recognised; the churches’ influence, both positive and negative on discourse on human sexuality is discussed. The research evidences the impact of the provision of spiritual care within a secular agency, showing that it is possible to create sacred space and to deliver a sacramental ministry within a non-church setting.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:bl.uk/oai:ethos.bl.uk:705581 |
| Date | January 2017 |
| Creators | Chatterley, Marion Frances |
| Publisher | University of Glasgow |
| Source Sets | Ethos UK |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Electronic Thesis or Dissertation |
| Source | http://theses.gla.ac.uk/7875/ |
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