NHS Calls Exorcist as Staff Report Ghostly Sightings at Hospice

Staff at a hospice in Norwich, UK, have raised concerns over alleged paranormal activity, leading NHS officials to enlist the help of an exorcist. Employees at the Priscilla Bacon Lodge, which specializes in end-of-life care, reported unsettling experiences they believe may be linked to the ghost of a girl dressed in red. The site, formerly known as Jenny Lind Children’s Hospital, has a history that some staff members now feel is haunting the facility.

The decision to call in a “deliverance minister”—a term commonly associated with exorcists—came after a series of distressing incidents. According to a hospice chaplain, some employees have found the occurrences “really upsetting.” In a communication to the Diocese of Norwich, the chaplain indicated that they were seeking guidance and support from the deliverance team. The aim was to conduct a religious ceremony using holy oil sourced from Norwich Cathedral, intended to alleviate the unsettling atmosphere.

Historical Context and Staff Reactions

The Priscilla Bacon Lodge, part of the Norfolk Community Health and Care NHS Trust, has served as a hospice since its conversion from a children’s hospital in 1975. Some staff members have expressed their belief that the facility is haunted by spirits of former residents. The chaplain’s email mentioned that these “paranormal incidents” have made it a “difficult time” for employees, further illustrating the emotional toll on the team.

An internal source revealed that discussions with an exorcist were ongoing, raising questions about how the NHS deals with such unusual circumstances. While the NHS trust confirmed that a blessing of the building took place, they refrained from commenting on the specific reports from staff members. They also denied that exorcists had visited the hospice in person.

Church of England’s Position on Exorcisms

The Church of England approaches the practice of exorcism with caution. Following a tragic incident in 1974, in which a butcher committed murder after participating in an all-night exorcism, the Archbishop of Canterbury issued guidelines mandating that deliverance ministers consult with medical practitioners, psychologists, and psychiatrists before engaging in cases that involve exorcism.

A spokesperson for the Church of England described deliverance ministry as a specialized form of pastoral care. They stated, “It is rooted in the church’s commitment to healing, wholeness, and peace for those experiencing distress, whether physical, mental, or spiritual.” This practice is conducted within the broader context of prayer, sacrament, and scripture, highlighting the church’s focus on holistic healing.

As the situation unfolds, the involvement of exorcists at the NHS hospice underscores the complex intersection of healthcare, spirituality, and staff well-being in the face of unexplained phenomena.