HOSPICE bosses have agreed to changes which mean people of all faiths - or none - can now help govern the vital organisation.

The Havens Hospices charity, which includes Fair Havens, The J’s and Little Havens, was founded in the early 1980s by a group of Christians who identified that better care was needed for people who were dying.

Staff and volunteers do not have to be of Christian faith to work at the hospices.

And the hospices care for patients of all faiths, and or those who have no faith or religion.

However, it has always been a requirement that the trustees had to be of Christian faith.

It is legal to make faith a requirement of becoming a trustee, a volunteer, if it is seen as being pertinent to the cause.

Trustees for the charity hold overall responsibility for its strategy, culture and governance.

A consultation into the issue took place in the eight weeks leading up to the annual general meeting. It took in views and opinions from existing members, trustees, patients and supporters.

Director of People Trevor Johnson said: “What this vote has demonstrated to us is that our members want Havens Hospices to be governed by people who have the right skills, attributes and commitment.

“We now look forward in the future to welcoming applications from members of our community who feel they can offer this guidance, regardless of their faith or spiritual beliefs.”

Celebrating and embracing its Christian heritage and foundations has always been important to Havens Hospices with opportunities for prayer, spiritual and chaplaincy support, Thanksgiving and Light up a Life services. These will continue.

There were concerns the history – including its Christian roots - of Havens Hospices could be lost among the changes.

Building on that suggestion, the charity will be appointing a trustee who will lead on heritage, values and spiritual care.

Mr Johnson added: “We will also be establishing a ‘Friends Group’ and inviting members of the local church community to join so that we can keep them informed of developments within our hospices. We are committed to strengthening the links with our Christian foundations and ensuring these are carried forward in the future.”

To find out more about becoming a volunteer for Havens Hospices, email volunteering@havenshospices.org.uk