Full Breakdown
NHS Hospice Seeks Deliverance Ministry Amid Ghostly Sightings
2/2/2026, 11:41:07 PM
Reports of Paranormal Activity at Priscilla Bacon Lodge
In 2023, staff at the Priscilla Bacon Lodge, a former hospice located near Colman Hospital in Norwich, reported a series of unsettling paranormal incidents, including sightings of a young girl in a red dress. These experiences prompted the hospice chaplain to contact the Diocese of Norwich for assistance from deliverance ministers, commonly known as exorcists. The chaplain expressed concerns over the distress these incidents were causing among staff, leading to requests for holy oil from Norwich Cathedral to conduct a religious ceremony aimed at addressing the reported hauntings.
The Priscilla Bacon Lodge, which provided end-of-life care, was previously the site of the Jenny Lind Children’s Hospital until its closure in 1975. This history has led some staff to speculate that the building may be haunted by spirits of former patients. In emails obtained through a Freedom of Information request, the chaplain described the situation as "difficult" and indicated that the staff were awaiting support from the deliverance team.
Official Responses and Clarifications
Despite the involvement of the deliverance ministry, the Norfolk Community Health and Care NHS Trust clarified that no formal exorcism took place at the hospice. A spokesperson stated that deliverance ministry is a specialized form of pastoral care aimed at providing healing and peace for individuals experiencing distress. The Diocese of Norwich also confirmed that an exorcism was not conducted at the site, and the deliverance team did not visit in person.
The Church of England has established strict guidelines regarding exorcisms, particularly following a tragic incident in 1974 that involved a murder linked to an exorcism. These guidelines emphasize the importance of consulting with medical professionals before engaging in deliverance practices.
Context of Rising Interest in Deliverance Ministry
The reported incidents at the Priscilla Bacon Lodge come amid a broader increase in inquiries to the Church of England regarding deliverance ministry. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a noted rise in requests for spiritual assistance, with many individuals seeking comfort rather than dramatic exorcisms. Dr. Anne Richards, the Church of England's national officer for deliverance ministry, explained that the focus of these inquiries often revolves around reassurance for those who have experienced loss.
Criticism and Opposition
While the Church of England supports deliverance ministry as a form of pastoral care, some critics argue that the practice can lead to misunderstandings and misinterpretations of mental health issues. The emphasis on spiritual explanations for distressing experiences may detract from the need for psychological support and intervention.
Conclusion
The situation at the Priscilla Bacon Lodge highlights the intersection of healthcare, spirituality, and the cultural perceptions of the supernatural. As the NHS navigates these complex issues, the balance between addressing staff concerns and adhering to established guidelines remains a critical consideration. The former hospice has since moved to new premises, leaving behind a legacy intertwined with both care and the unexplained.
