March marks Social Worker month. A month to acknowledge the effort and sacrifice social workers put in, day in and day out, for the communities in which they work. The role of a social worker varies according to the field in which they focus whether it be social development, family development, children and youth, gerontology, palliative care, crime prevention or academia and research to name a few.

“As Hospice East Rand, we’d like to place a spot light on palliative care and the exceptional work our social workers play within our organisation, says Jonquil Siepman, marketing and media liaison for Hospice East Rand.

Palliative care is centred around improving quality of life for patients diagnosed with life-limiting illnesses through the prevention and relief of suffering, the early identification, assessment and treatment of pain and other psychosocial and spiritual problems.

Patients and their family members can experience a roller-coaster of emotions from disbelief, doubt, anger and anxiety to depression, financial strain, physical pain, social isolation and/or family conflict.

“Together with our doctor and nursing sisters, our social workers take a holistic approach to addressing our patient’s physical, mental, social and spiritual well-being. We look at all aspects realistically and find the best solution for our patients, says Busi Ntondini, senior social worker and head of psychosocial department at Hospice East Rand.

“We help navigate planning for end-of-life care, help patients understand treatment plans, manage stresses around their illness, overcome crisis management, connect patients to further support networks and provide bereavement counselling for the family”, she says.

Not only do they help our patients but they support our doctor and nursing staff through their tough challenges as well.

Our Hospice East Rand social workers have the biggest hearts! Their days can be challenging and  stressful but they always remark about the rewards like making strong connections with people, celebrating their life stories, and holding their hands during an emotional walk few want to take.

If you are suffering from a life-limiting illness or have a family member or friend in need, please reach out to us on 011 422 1531 or intake@hospiceeastrand.co.za