Job Title: Hospital Social Worker (Oxford)
Location: Oxford, UK
Position Overview: We are seeking an experienced and empathetic Hospital Social Worker to join our dynamic team at Oxford Hospital. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in medical social work, with the ability to assess and address the diverse needs of patients and their families. You will play a crucial role in providing support, advocacy, and coordination of services to enhance the overall patient experience and promote positive outcomes. This is an exciting opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals facing health challenges in our community.
Responsibilities:
- Conduct comprehensive psychosocial assessments of patients and their families to identify strengths, concerns, and support needs.
- Provide emotional support, counseling, and practical guidance to patients and families coping with illness, injury, or other medical crises.
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary healthcare teams to develop and implement individualized care plans that address the psychosocial aspects of patient care.
- Advocate for patients' rights and preferences, ensuring their voices are heard in treatment decisions and discharge planning.
- Coordinate referrals to community resources, including home care, rehabilitation, mental health services, and social support programs.
- Facilitate family meetings, support groups, and educational sessions to promote understanding and coping strategies for patients and families.
- Maintain accurate and timely documentation of assessments, interventions, and case management activities in accordance with professional standards and regulatory requirements.
- Participate in departmental meetings, case conferences, and quality improvement initiatives to enhance service delivery and patient outcomes.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor's or Master's degree in Social Work from an accredited institution.
- Registered with the Social Work England (SWE) as a Social Worker.
- Previous experience working in a hospital or healthcare setting, preferably in a medical social work role.
- Strong assessment and intervention skills, with the ability to address complex psychosocial issues within a medical context.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport and collaborate effectively with patients, families, and healthcare professionals.
- Knowledge of relevant legislation, policies, and best practices related to medical social work and healthcare ethics.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.
- Commitment to professional development and maintaining current knowledge of advances in medical social work practice.