Kempsey Hospital Social Work Service

The Social Work Department provides support to patients and their families who have health related issues. This support is offered by professionally qualified Social Workers who may see people as both inpatients and outpatients. They can also advise on community resources that provide additional support and assistance.

The Social Work Department provides a range of supportive services including:

•Coping emotionally with adjustment to illness and the impact on family, including carers

•Managing stress, depression and anxiety

•Communicating with family, friends and medical teams

•Practical, legal & financial concerns

•Effects of illness on self-esteem, confidence & lifestyle •Carer stress

•Grief and loss issues. Types of support provided:

•Professional support in adapting to serious & chronic illness

•Family conferences around important decisions

•Stress & anxiety management

•Assistance with practical, financial & legal matters

•Information & referral to community resources

•Advocacy.

How to refer: Referrals are hospital internal referral. Patients and family/carers are welcome to self-refer.