Social Work & Counselling Services at SALHN

The Social Work Department offers support to patients with a range of health and social needs. We are committed to providing compassionate and holistic health care that considers the physical, emotional, social, and cultural wellbeing of patients and their family or carers.

Our service is available to patients who are receiving treatment at Flinders Medical Centre or Noarlunga Health Service.

Social Workers can provide intervention across a range of areas, including:

  • Working with people experiencing a range of psychological and social vulnerabilities across the lifespan.
  • Responding and providing support to people experiencing child and family safety concerns, including domestic and family violence.
  • Assessment and planning around discharge needs, including referrals to a range of community services.
  • Support following a serious new diagnosis and broader psychosocial adjustment to health changes.
  • Information and referral to a range of aged care supports including residential and community-based care.
  • Helping people with disabilities in hospital to engage with NDIS and receive appropriate care and support.
  • Providing information about a range of legal issues, including South Australian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (SACAT) applications, Advance Care Directives, and Enduring Powers of Attorney.

The Placement/Welfare officers extend these services to support with:

  • facilitating transitions to permanent placement in Residential Aged Care Facilities
  • providing basic material aid, including clothing and toiletries
  • patient assistance travelling scheme (PATs) information, guidance and support.

Referrals

Referral to social work can be made by your treating doctor or nurse.

Contact us

Social workers are available during the week, with limited availability on weekends and public holidays.

Flinders Medical Centre
Ph: 08 8204 5511

Noarlunga Health Service
Ph: 08 8384 9222

Email (both sites): Health.FMCSocialWork@sa.gov.au

Social Work teams in other speciality areas such as Women’s and Children’s Division, Mental Health, Emergency Department, Rehabilitation & Palliative Care and Child Protection Service can be contacted via the Flinders Medical Centre switchboard on 08 8204 5511.

If you are in crisis and need help, please consider contacting the following services:

The Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) is the national professional body representing social workers in Australia. It sets ethical standards, provides professional development opportunities, and advocates for the social work profession to enhance the well-being of individuals, families, and communities.