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The Social Worker is a key member of the multidisciplinary team. A professionally qualified individual, the Social Worker is central to ensuring that the needs of the patient and their family are assessed and that a patient-centred package of care and support is put in place.
Categories
Beneficiaries
Situation
The link between caring and ill-health has been attributed to a lack of appropriate support, isolation, financial stress and a general lack of information. A recent study by Carers UK identified that in the north east of England, up to 26% of carers report ill-health compared to a national average of 20%. In addition, 97% of Easington, one of the largest districts we serve outside Hartlepool, is ranked in the top 20% most health deprived in the country.
Solution
The Social Worker works in partnership with the local authority, and undertakes the assessment of patients with life-limiting illness in the community. This enables patients to access the required services more quickly and ensures continued support of patients and carers in the community, where there is the danger that individuals may feel isolated and not able to access the services that they need. The Social Worker also assists patients in accessing grant aid and providing welfare advice.