Content
Social Work
Offering emotional, psychological and practical support to patients, their carers and family.
The Social Work and Families Department offers invaluable support to people facing the challenge of a long-term or life-limiting illness.
We understand illness can impact on a range of issues for patients and their loved ones. From legal matters and welfare rights to the thoughts and feelings associated with their condition and changing circumstances.
Practical support
It can be daunting having to speak with teams of people or large organisations, especially at a time when you may be finding it difficult to focus on practical matters.
Our team of one full-time and three part-time social workers can work with you on the practicalities surrounding your changing situation.
Our in-depth knowledge of the systems in place within local authorities, health services and legal structures allows us to offer guidance and support as you confront issues or challenges that arise.
The ways in which we help patients are wide-ranging, but have included:
- Offering advice and guidance on how to access suitable resources for your needs
- Negotiating with local authorities and primary care trusts to encourage the speedy agreement of a workable care package or nursing home placement
- Helping you understand your rights and navigate the often complex benefits system
- Putting you in contact with an appropriate solicitor to write or change a will
- Supporting you in making contact with a funeral director
- Speaking to organisations as an advocate on your behalf
- Writing letters in support of applications you make
If you have any worries or concerns about your present situation, or the future for your family, please talk to us. Although we can’t claim to ‘fix’ things, we will offer whatever assistance we can to ease the pressure.
Emotional and psychological support
As with all our colleagues at the hospice, the emotional, psychological and spiritual support we offer to patients and their loved ones underpins everything we do.
Exploring the thoughts and feelings associated with illness, and the changes it brings to all aspects of patients’ and their families’ lives, is the most important component of our work.
We can lend a listening ear to individuals and family groups and be there to support you through difficult times.
Our advice is also often called on by professionals, such as teachers, to help them understand how they can support patients and families better.
How to contact us
The department hours are Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 4.30pm, but we can be flexible.
If you have any questions about the work we do, or would like to arrange to speak with a social worker, please call 0845 225 5497 or contact us using the link below.
If you have any further questions about Compton Hospice and Services/Medical, please call 0845 225 5497 or contact us. We will do our utmost to help with your enquiry.
Patient Comments