Community Health Social Workers provide assistance to individuals and families with health-related personal, emotional and social issues.

This service is available to adults, 18 years and over, with a long term physical illness or disability; a terminal illness or diagnosis of cancer; or who require short term support and assistance related to a recent health issue or diagnosis. This excludes referrals which are specifically related to Mental Health and Alcohol and Drug issues. To read more about ‘Needs Assessment’ for people 65 years and over with long term disabilities, please refer to Needs Assessment & Service Co-ordination by clicking here.

Services offered:

• Support and information for caregivers
• Assistance to address issues of neglect or abuse
• Information and support regarding financial and social housing accommodation issues (excludes private rental)
• Liaison and advocacy with other health professionals, community groups, Work & Income (WINZ), and Kainga Ora and Oranga Tamariki
• Referral to other appropriate services

What to expect
Community Health Social Workers are trained and skilled at assisting individuals and families to deal with a range of problems and issues which may be affecting their health and wellbeing.

We can support you to identify your needs, to set goals and put you in touch with the available resources and services which may help you to achieve your goals. Our interventions will be short term and goal directed. All Social Workers are registered under the Social Workers Registration Act 2003.

FAQS
How long will it take to see a Social Worker?
Social Workers are allocated files on a priority basis. Whilst you may feel that your case is urgent, this may not be as urgent as other referrals received. As a general rule most new cases are seen for the First Specialist Assessment within a 3-4 week period.

Will I be able to choose my Social Worker?
No, Social Workers are allocated cases within specific localities and do not generally move between set geographical boundaries. Special needs are considered on a case by case basis by the Practice Supervisor.