The chapel at Northwick Park Hospital is set to change into a larger, more accessible multifaith space designed to welcome people of all faiths, as well as those who want somewhere quiet to sit and reflect.
Chaplaincy services at the hospital provide an impartial and multifaith service to patients and relatives who would like someone to talk to while in hospital. As part of this work, the existing chapel is being refurbished so it can better serve the needs of the local community.
The current chapel dates back to 1979, when the hospital first opened. It is on non-consecrated ground, meaning it has never been formally blessed by the Church of England or other religious authorities. Due to its age, the space no longer meets modern NHS chaplaincy guidelines.
New draft designs focus on creating a flexible layout. This will allow different religious communities to display their own symbols and icons during their services, without symbols from other religions being on display at the same time. The aim is to create a space that feels respectful and inclusive for everyone.
Lead chaplain Rizwan Rawat said: “We all join together under one roof in a hospital and that should be reflected in a multifaith space, especially in an area as diverse as this.
“There is a lot of intolerance in the world at the moment so sanctuaries like this where people can come together are more important than ever.”
The chaplaincy service will hold several events to hear from local communities, patients and employees about the planned refurbishment. Work is expected to start in February 2026.
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