Subject: Social Work input in COVID-19 pandemic
(adapted from email forwarded by Leanne, 08/04/20)
Good afternoon
We have been working at TSH and across the district to adapt social work input during the pandemic.
- SESLHD protocol Request for accommodation for COVID-19 related isolation (above) – where appropriate, temporary accommodation for patients needing isolation where there are no other options. Temporary accommodation for homeless people has been enhanced for non COVID-19 homeless people.
- Emergency relief packages – are now available for people directed to self-isolate, and have no family or friends able to help with shopping https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/covid-19/emergency-relief-packages
- RACF – there is a template letter the SW can adapt for medical sign off where nursing homes request ‘clearance’, approved by district committee. A similar letter is also available for patients discharging to NDIS group homes / SIL.
- End of life SW intervention – we are drafting guidance for social workers, taking into account SESLHDPR/258 Infection Bodies – Care after Death
- Prioritising safe discharges for people who no longer require hospitalisation.
- Visitor letter – due to enhanced community restrictions some visitors were reporting that police had stopped to check their movements on the way to visiting hospital. SW has a template letter to provide to nominated visitors as required.
Kind regards, Ben
Social Work Department Head | The Sutherland Hospital