Reflecting theologically on the impact of HIV in Edinburgh with particular reference to infected people, health and social care professionals, Scottish churches and local agency, Waverley Care.

Chatterley, Marion Frances (2017) Reflecting theologically on the impact of HIV in Edinburgh with particular reference to infected people, health and social care professionals, Scottish churches and local agency, Waverley Care. DPT thesis, University of Glasgow.

Abstract

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.

• Item Type: Thesis (DPT)
• Qualification Level: Doctoral
• Keywords: HIV, Edinburgh, contextual theology, reflexivity, oral history, phenomenology, chaplaincy, harm reduction, stigma, bereavement, spirituality, Waverley Care.
• Subjects: B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > BV Practical Theology; H Social Sciences > HN Social history and conditions. Social problems. Social reform; R Medicine > RA Public aspects of medicine
• Colleges/Schools: College of Arts & Humanities > School of Critical Studies > Theology and Religious Studies
• Supervisor's Name: Clague, Ms. Julie
• Date of Award: 2017
• Depositing User: Rev Canon Marion Chatterley
• Unique ID: glathesis:2017-7875
• Copyright: Copyright of this thesis is held by the author.
• Date Deposited: 27 Feb 2017 10:58
• Last Modified: 09 Jun 2017 10:40
• URI: https://theses.gla.ac.uk/id/eprint/7875