Working Life: Home visits are one of the great privileges of being a social worker

9am

I’m a social worker, who works as part of a multi-disciplinary paediatric primary care team, called the Linn Team, covering Galway city, north and west. 

I was delighted to take the opportunity to work on this project, supported by the Sláintecare Integration Innovation Fund (SIIF).

It aims to pilot delivering enhanced community services for children and young people in primary care, within a Community Healthcare Network setting. 

It’s the first time a social worker has been employed to work in a children’s primary care service in Galway.

My schedule depends on the needs of the families I support. Flexibility is key, in order to respond to their needs in a timely manner.

10.30am

I call into Westside Community Centre, for a parent-and-toddler group. 

It’s a lovely way to meet families and other workers in a community setting, as our area has a large and diverse population.

12pm

Back at the office, I make phonecalls and answer emails. so linking in with agencies, such as Galway City Council, regarding housing and homelessness issues, and the Department of Social Protection, around families’ benefits and entitlements, forms part of my working day.

2pm

I go on home visits to some families, as they are often more relaxed in their homes. It’s one of the great privileges of being a social worker.

4pm

Monthly drop-in clinics are offered by the team in Shantalla Health Centre. It’s an opportunity for families to meet the team, who can offer once-off support and signposting. 

The team includes a consultant paediatrician, advanced nurse practitioner, two psychologists, occupational therapist, speech-and-language therapist, assistant staff officer, and myself.

5pm

I finish up with admin work. To relax and unwind, it’s important for me to have family time, walk, read, or watch a good TV series.