Social Work

Our social work team provides guidance and assistance to patients, families, and carers as they adjust and reduce the impacts of issues and changes due to a health condition, illness, disability or getting older.

Who we care for

Social Workers care for patients across Grampians Health inpatient and outpatient settings and may provide/assist with:

risk assessments for child abuse and neglect, family violence, elder abuse & sexual abuse
adjustment to a new illness and adjustment to new lifestyle counselling
crisis assessment and intervention (e.g. homelessness, sudden trauma)
mediation and resolving conflict between family members/significant others regarding decision making
advocacy, assist to navigate the health system to ensure social, cultural and emotional needs are met
coordinating discharge from hospital or health services programs
counselling or support where there is bereavement, grief and loss
National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) applications and processes
guidance and information when dealing medico-legal and Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) matters
assistance with the transition to supported accommodation including Residential Aged Care, Supported Disability Accommodation or Supported Residential Service

What you can expect

Our social workers meet with consumers and family members to assess care needs. They also assess the requirement for any ongoing support services. Ongoing supports may include referrals to other health and community services to ensure a smooth transition from hospital to home.

We can help you with:

emotional support in hospital
support for patients including those who are at risk in their home environment
options for discharge from hospital to an appropriate service or care facility
support to return to the family home after a stay in hospital
support to organise care for dependents where hospital admission of a carer is unplanned
support carers where a patients care needs change