Social Work

There are two Palliative Care Social Workers based at Bolton Hospice who are employed by Bolton Council.  They form an integral part of the Hospice team, carrying out several key roles:

Guiding patients

Our Social Workers are there to discuss any concerns that the patients or carers may have, helping them to make informed decisions and choices about their care and the support they may need. They are very experienced in providing professional support to our patients and carers within the Inpatient Unit and also Bolton Hospice Support Services.

Supporting patients

Our Social Workers are referred direct by Hospice Services.

They support patients who have a new diagnosis and may need either care provision at that time or information and advice about the range of services available that could be beneficial over time.  

They are also involved with those patients who have existing care provision under Bolton Council’s Adult and Community Services and may require a reassessment of their Social Care needs due to a health change.  This could involve joint working and liaison with other Social Workers; District Nurses; Care Agencies; Macmillan Nurses and other providers of care.

The Social Workers will provide information and signposting to Patients and Carers and discuss their eligibility for a wide range of services under Fair Access to Care Criteria.  This could include information on Personal Budgets and Self Directed Support; Direct Payments; Residential and Nursing home care; Community activities and Welfare Rights etc.

Helping someone with their diagnosis

If you or someone close to you has been diagnosed with a life limiting illness the changes can be difficult and painful to deal with. Psychosocial support can be beneficial to help you at this time. The Social Workers can assist you to help you plan your care in advance and also to support your wishes and choices within your family and your care provision.

Some people are able to manage this on their own, whilst others welcome the opportunity to share their feelings and concerns with someone who understands their situation and who is skilled and knowledgeable about the issues you may face over time.