social work

Liver Unit Website

SOCIAL WORK SERVICE TO THE LIVER UNIT

The Liver Unit has a dedicated Social Worker who is an integral member of the multi-disciplinary team. As a supra regional unit, the majority of the patients come from outside the Leeds area, which in itself can cause tremendous problems for patients and their families and the social worker is here to help with a variety of problems; e.g. practical, financial and emotional.

Often patients have travelled long distances from home to the Liver Unit, and this in itself can cause difficulties.

The following is a list of areas that you might want to seek help, support and advice with:

Accommodation for relatives – ask the ward staff/social worker about staying in accomodation in the hospital, local bed & breakfast or local hotels
Travel to and from hospital
Plans for your discharge from hospital including home care, aids and adaptations at home, help with meals etc.
Referral to other agencies for specific services
A benefits check, and general advice about financial problems
Employment
Housing
Family relationships
Anxiety and stress
Counselling for yourself or your family
Information re support groups

This list is not exhaustive; so if in doubt ask to see the social worker who may be able to help you. Your circumstances and needs that you have may change over time, so please do bring them to our attention.

The social worker is also involved with patients being assessed for transplantation,offering support and advice, and helping to plan ahead with a package of care if needed tailored to the needs of the individual. A detailed assessment is required for those patients with complex social and mental health problems to ensure they have the support of other health and social care professionals in their home area.

The holistic perspective offered by the social worker balances the specialist expertise of the medical team, and the support provided to the patient and family throughout the transplant process extends to the post transplant period Arrangements can be made either to see the social worker in the out patients clinic or by making telephone contact.

The value placed on the social work role by the Liver Unit highlights its commitment to the well-being of each patient and the importance of a team approach which combines professional integrity with respect for the dignity of the individual.

Jacqui Gouge Jacqueline.gouge@leeds.gov.uk

Medical Social Work Department

Trust H.Q.

St James’s Hospital

Beckett Street

LEEDS LS9 7TF

Tel No: 0113 206 4628

Fax No: 0113 206 6404