What is Soul Space and why is it needed?
Frontline workers who care for people experiencing poverty, homelessness, mental health and substance use issues deal with trauma in their care of clients, and many have experienced trauma themselves. This rewarding but challenging work is made more difficult by an ongoing lack of public funding for housing and food security, the opioid crisis, toxic drug supply, and more recently, by the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, frontline workers are at high risk of experiencing burn-out, vicarious trauma and compassion fatigue - conditions that can take months to years to recover from (1,2).
Soul Space intends to be part of the holistic care that can support frontline workers in their journeys as they face these challenges. Soul Space helps frontline workers can explore life’s big questions related to suffering and loss, bolster their sense of the meaning and purpose of their work and own lives, and strengthen their sense of hope by nurturing a deep self-understanding and compassion for self. Soul Space recognizes that frontline workers bring their own wisdom and insights from their personal and professional experiences, and skills in coping with traumatic events.
Soul Space intends to be part of the holistic care that can support frontline workers in their journeys as they face these challenges. Soul Space helps frontline workers can explore life’s big questions related to suffering and loss, bolster their sense of the meaning and purpose of their work and own lives, and strengthen their sense of hope by nurturing a deep self-understanding and compassion for self. Soul Space recognizes that frontline workers bring their own wisdom and insights from their personal and professional experiences, and skills in coping with traumatic events.
Why is Spiritual Care a key part of Soul Space?
Spiritual care focuses on the yearning for meaning, hope, connection and comfort. This care offers a reflective presence for anyone in need, whether in the course of their regular life or experiencing stressful, life changing moments through a caring presence when frontline workers are feeling anxious, confused, lonely, disappointed or hurting. Spiritual care nurtures a sense of being centered, connected and whole. It directs our attention both inward and outward, with an awareness of our individual and collective call towards a world that is more just, inclusive and equitable.
Retreat participants reflect on their experience at a Soul Space retreat
