Most clients that a live-in carer will stay with are sympathetic to other religions. In fact, as a live-in carer you may often find that you are allowed extra time off to attend your own church if you so choose to.

There are, unfortunately, times when your religion and that of your client and family are diametrically opposed and this can become an issue.

It is an incredibly sad situation when there is a difference of belief to the extent that it becomes a problem. While most religions teach us to be tolerant of other people’s beliefs, being of another religion can cause serious problems if not dealt with carefully.

So, what can we do about this?

Address the situation immediately

You will find out all about your client and their beliefs before you even arrive. Your description will tell you what their belief is and how devout they are in going to worship.

If you realize that your religion differs from theirs, and so do your worship methods then it is important that you discuss this on your arrival or very soon afterwards.

You may have the opportunity to discuss your spiritual needs with the family in cases where your client is mentally unable to handle this.

Be upfront with whoever you talk to. It is important that you let them know that you would like to visit your own place of worship. You may even be averse to going to your client’s place of worship, and they may make alternative arrangements for this.

Be openminded

Although it may be difficult to do, you should try to keep an open mind about the other side, namely, the side of your client and family.  By doing this, they will most likely be open minded about your beliefs.

It may be a good idea to decline to discuss or debate the two different religions as opposing views can become heated. Religion, as we all know, can lead to strong points of view!

Simply not discussing your beliefs from the beginning will set the ground rules and boundaries.

It pays to accept that other religions have certain dates through the year which they feel are meaningful. Accept that there will be celebrations that you do not agree with although they may take place while you are there.

Be respectful

Some religions have different ways to prepare their food and you should adapt yourself to work with your client on this. Remember that their belief has been in place for longer than you have, and they are simply not going to change it if you disagree with it.

Working with your client and their family, instead of against them will earn you their respect rather than cause enmity in the home.

Be flexible

It may simply not be possible for you to attend the place of worship you choose because your client may need you to be there for them.

In this instance, you may be able to help your client into church and then read a book outside, if you so choose. Having said that, you may enjoy a different type of worship every so often!

To sum up

Every client that you are placed with may be a different religion to you, but this is no reason why you should not get on well with your client and family and enjoy your stay there.

Keep an openminded attitude, be a little flexible and respectful towards your client and their beliefs. This will go a long way to the family treating you and your beliefs respectfully.

Who knows, even though your religion is completely opposite to theirs, they may invite you back because of your understanding and non-judgmental attitude towards a different belief.

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