Supporting Clinical Services

Medical Social Work Service

The Medical Social Work Department provides a practical and emotional support service to patients and their families who may be experiencing additional challenges. We work collaboratively with people, within an anti-discriminatory and person centred framework.

The Medical Social Work Service is available through the Emergency Department, Maternity Department, Medical Wards, Paediatric Department and Palliative Care Department.

Key Services

Our social workers commonly provide support with the following difficulties:

• Child Protection and Welfare concerns
• Safeguarding Vulnerable Adults
• Homelessness
• Mental Health challenges
• Domestic violence/ Coercive control
• Issues related to a medical condition and/or new diagnosis.
• Assessment, referral and signposting to community supports
• Patient and family support around the impact of illness, end of life care and communication.
• Loss and bereavement
• Addiction and substance misuse
• Rape/ sexual assault
• Crisis pregnancy

The Social Work team works closely with other professionals both within the hospital and in the community to ensure patients can access the supports they need. Please note patients of University Hospital Kerry can access the Medical Social Work service free of charge, through the departments specified above.

A referral can be made by the medical team. Once a referral is received; you will be contacted by a medical social worker to organise an initial assessment. We will arrange to have your appointment coincide with other hospital appointments where/ if possible.