Resource for chaplains & pastoral care workers
The Accountability Map
Answer each question with an actual name or role — not “the organisation”. Where you cannot answer, write UNCLEAR in capitals. The unclear entries are the point of the exercise: each one is a place where structural strain will land on you personally.
The chaplain is embedded in the institution, authorised by another institution, but entrusted by the person.
1.Who employs me, or holds my contract or volunteer agreement?
2.Who funds the role, and for how long is that funding secure?
3.Who hosts me — whose site, policies and culture do I work inside?
4.Who accredits or endorses me, and can that endorsement be withdrawn?
5.Who directs my day-to-day work?
6.Who supervises my practice — reflective supervision, not line management?
7.Who is responsible for my safety on this site?
8.Who receives concerns I raise about the host?
9.Who receives concerns I raise about the provider?
10.Who protects me from detriment if I raise something uncomfortable?
11.Who decides when host and provider disagree?
12.Who does the person receiving care think I answer to?
13.My most important UNCLEAR entry, and the exact question I will ask to resolve it:
14.What should exist in writing and currently does not:
