Hannah Hammoud
Northern Health’s social workers marked World Social Work Day with an event highlighting this year’s theme, ‘Respecting Diversity through Joint Social Action’.
Hosted on Tuesday, March 21, the afternoon event featured two presentations, each focusing on aspects of diversity.
The first presentation showcased the support provided by the Disability Liaison program at Northern Health for people living with a disability, focusing on intersectionality and marginalised groups.
The second presentation focused on family violence in the LGBTQIA+ community.
Northern Health allied health associate director Penelope Vye said the event provided a great opportunity for all Northern Health social workers to gather together and celebrate the important work they do.
“Social workers are key in leading efforts in the family violence and disability areas,” she said.
“The number of social workers employed at Northern Health has increased dramatically in the past year. The onboarding of mental health has led to the employment of an additional 90 staff who provide services across a wide range of inpatient and community programs.”
Registered nurse Sara* said the work social workers do is pivotal to supporting patients through times of hardship.
“Social workers provide valuable knowledge of supports, services and programs available for inpatients and beyond the hospital walls,” she said
“They provide human connection for patients and their families during stressful times and advocate for the safety and wellbeing of patients and their loved ones.”
*Alias has been used for privacy reasons
