Social Work

We acknowledge the Bidjigal People who are the sovereign custodians of the land that we work on. We pay our respects to elders past and present and acknowledge the enduring survival of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples throughout these lands we now call Australia.

Social work is an important component of the team at the Royal Hospital for Women. We complement the medical, nursing and other allied health services, and advocate for women and their families in their journey through the health system.  Depending on your needs, social workers offer

  • Emotional support
  • Practical assistance with accessing a range of supports in the community
  • Short term counselling related to your health and wellbeing

“Social work is a practice-based profession and an academic discipline that promotes social change and development, social cohesion, and the empowerment and liberation of people. Principles of social justice, human rights, collective responsibility and respect for diversities are central to social work. Underpinned by theories of social work, social sciences, humanities and indigenous knowledge, social work engages people and structures to address life challenges and enhance wellbeing.” (Australian Association of Social Workers, July 2014)

  • Listen to your story and treat you as an individual, with respect and dignity
  • We aim to provide a culturally sensitive service
  • Arrange an interpreter, if you need one, to ensure you understand everything we discuss and so you can explain your situation and needs fully
  • Provide support, education and referrals in relation to domestic and family violence
  • Provide support with life stressors including relationships, financial hardship and housing
  • Make referrals to services that can provide you with ongoing support in your community
  • Liaise between and coordinate services related to your care, as required
  • Be a support if you need to attend meetings within the hospital
  • Help with understanding and navigating  hospital systems
  • Assist in accessing practical supports
  • Offer counselling around making difficult decisions in pregnancy
  • Offer grief and bereavement support 
  • Refer to legal services

  • Ask one of the health professionals you see in the hospital if you can talk to a social worker
  • Contact us directly on 9382 6670