General Practice Social Workers
General Practice Social Workers are part of the multi-disciplinary team (MDT) within a GP practice.
Social workers and social work assistants in a GP practice will work with patients to identify and address social factors which may affect physical or mental health and general wellbeing.
Social workers do this by:
- Promoting independence
- Supporting social inclusion and participation in society
- Helping people keep safe and well
Social workers can discuss any problems a patient has and explore what is important to the patient. They will provide the patient with practical advice, help and support in order to address these problems.
Where the social worker feels that a patient may benefit from other services, they may work with other people or groups in the local community that can support a patient’s needs.
Types of Support Provided
The sort of things that social workers can help with are:
- Isolation or loneliness
- Carer support
- Relationship difficulties
- Parenting difficulties
- Housing difficulties
- Stress
- Bereavement
- Traumatic life events
- Financial difficulties
- Alcohol and drug issues
How do I make an appointment?
This MDT service is currently only available in the Derry/Londonderry, Causeway, Newry & District, West Belfast, Down, Ards & North Down areas. Please contact your GP Practice within these areas to book an appointment.