Clare Holland House

Social Work

Our social workers are able to provide you and your family with information, resources and support for social, practical and psychological or emotional needs are available at the hospice and can also come and see you at home, meet you elsewhere, and help in various ways. Social workers are specialist counsellors and it is sometimes helpful to talk confidentially to someone about your worries. We can help you find information, get support, explore options for care, and are able to talk with you about a range of emotions and ways of managing.

Social workers are practiced at liaising with government departments such as Centrelink, ACT Housing and the Public Advocates Office and are aware of other agencies that may be of help to you and your family.

Your carer could well be entitled to claim carer’s allowance, a non means tested benefit from Centrelink. Some people are also entitled to a bereavement payment.

Transport needs can become complex, there is information and forms for the taxi subsidy scheme, for example. 

What else can they do?
Our social workers are also grief and loss counsellors and are able to talk with you and your family about your fears and concerns if you would like to. Many people review their affairs when they come on to the palliative care program and the social workers can talk with you about this if you would like to. Related concerns, such as how to talk to children about what’s happening, may come into greater focus. You might be particularly worried about someone. The social workers will listen to your hopes and fears and help you think through what you might be able to do or say. The social workers are also able to provide bereavement counselling for your family.