Home - NSW Court Chaplains Association

Support in court

Chaplains provide support to offenders, victims and their families.

They provide information, encouragement and support during times of grief and help relieve the stress and frustration associated with those encountering the court system.

The Positive Living Skills Program

It not only gives you the opportunity to explore important issues but also offers personal support and care in a confidential one-on-one session with your trained facilitator. You will have the freedom to explore the issues that may be holding you back and work through them to achieve healing and transformation. Read more…

Getting to know yourself

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Directing anger

Managing stress

Get involved

Your support counts

Founded in 2021, NSWCCA has been working hard with the help of our members and volunteers to help individuals in our area. Our work is dedicated to funding and delivering charitable services, and we strive to inspire and improve the lives of those who need assistance.

Volunteer

Court Chaplains listen to client’s concerns, explain the Court process and provide support and referral.

Working with the Chaplains is a court network of volunteers who undergo a rigorous screening process, and a comprehensive training program, followed by mentoring by an experienced Court Chaplain.

Testimonials

Katrina’s charge of Driving Under the Influence led to her completing the Positive Living Skills Program… and more than one unexpected outcome that assisted others

more…

Please support us by making a donation — every contribution makes a difference!

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Meet the team

Our team of chaplains and qualified volunteers are dedicated to continuing and expanding our charitable mission. We are a family of diverse individuals who focus our different skills and expertise on a singular goal of serving and supporting all those going through the court system, this includes victims, offenders, and their families.

Paul O’Keefe

Chaplain | Training Facilitator

Paul studied Theology through Moore Theological College at Newtown then completed a Diploma in Chaplaincy through the Salvation Army’s Booth College at Stanmore. He holds a Parish Lay Minister’s Authority by the Anglican Church of Australia, Dioceses of Sydney and has a wide experience in many streams of Chaplaincy.

Alan Staines

Board Chair

Alan has received the highest recognition for community service, (OAM) Order of Australia Medal in 2003 and received (OF) the highest order of the Salvation Army for his service to the marginalised, those bereaved by suicides and young people for many years. He set up the Salvo Care Line, Oasis (youth homelessness) and Suicide Prevention and Bereavement Services. Alan has been involved with ministry for over 40 years and has been associated with the same Church for 82 years. He has been a Chaplain at St.Vincents Hospital for 20 years and is a co-founder of the NSW Court Chaplains Association.

Sharyn Widdowson

Team Leader | Court Chaplain

Sharyn has been as a Court Chaplain working predominately in the Downing Centre Law Courts for the past 20 years. This has offered a powerful opportunity to come alongside individuals and families at what is often the worst time of their life. Sharyn is co-founder and Team Leader of the NSW Court Chaplains Association. She is co-ordinator of the Positive Living Skills Program (PLP) in the Courts and she is excited to be leading up a team of dedicated Chaplains who are currently appointed to a number of Courts in NSW. Looking ahead she would like to see an increasing chaplaincy presence in more courts in NSW and she is excited to be a part of this growing Association.