Social work

Social workers look at the interaction between people and their social environment. 

They assist people through emotional and/or practical changes they may face as a result of illness of disability.

This can involve assessment, coordination of services, discharge planning, community liaison and referral, patient advocacy and family support, education, counselling and aiding communication between ward staff, patients  and their families. 

Social work has a strong focus on promoting independence and empowering the patient to make their own informed decisions - people being encouraged to take personal responsibility for their health. 

Social workers are available for hospital, rural and community areas. Generally social workers work Monday to Friday between the hours of 8am and 5pm.