Whilst this is undoubtedly good news, it can appear a maze to those who are wishing to access them for the first time. 

This is where our social worker, Louise Helsby-Shaw comes in. Louise has been at St. Rocco’s since 2015 and is a key part of the Warrington Integrated Palliative Care Hub based here. We managed to grab a few minutes in her busy schedule to find out more about what her role entails on a day-to-day basis.

Support and funding

“I provide support for patients in our IPU and their families,” she explained. “This covers emotional, practical, financial and social support, helping them to navigate the various care and help packages that are available to them. On an individual basis I deal with discharge planning, either putting together a care and support package for those going home or, sorting out a nursing home for those requiring 24-hour care.

An important part of this is sourcing and agreeing the funding for these packages. “I speak to Continuing Healthcare,“ said Louise. “This is part of the Warrington CCG that helps provide the funding. In addition, I work collaboratively with our Occupation Therapy team, Physiotherapist and Hospice at Home Team.

Getting the help that is needed

“All this ensures that at a very vulnerable time for the patient and their families it is one less thing for them to worry about and makes sure they get the care they need from a service that is available. This includes Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy, Complementary Therapists, Counselling and Emotional Wellbeing and Volunteer services. Externally providers of care such as the Community Macmillan Team, District Nurses and other care agencies are also used.

“The main thing is I listen to patients and their families concerns and help signpost them to where help is available, helping them to navigate the care maze and get the help they needed. This is very rewarding knowing I can help people in this way at such an emotional time.”

Find out more about social work at St. Rocco’s.