Chapter One

Introductory Paper for discussion on Reflective Practice by the Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Chaplaincy Team compiled by Rev A V Ruddle MTh BD GDip Counselling

Reflective Practice is a means by which individuals or teams can learn from their experiences.  It is also a means by which they can connect theory and practice.  This purposeful way of reviewing leads to understanding what was occurring and seeing them differently and therefore taking action as a result.

It fits with the need to provide evidence-based practice enabling those who engage in it to be prepared for required standards of care and the potential of registration. 

It will require anyone who decides to engage in it the need to use critical analytical skills along with judgement which leads to better decision-making in the place of practice. In the following three sections we will examine:

1. History and development

2. Reflective Cycles

3.  Methods, Context and Risks