Social Worker

Alfred Health

Alfred Health is a leader in health care delivery, improvement, research and education. We are the main provider of health services to people living in the inner southeast suburbs of Melbourne, from ambulatory to inpatient and home and community-based services.

• Permanent position
• Full time (80 hours per fortnight with flexible monthly ADOs)
• Social Worker Grade 2 Year 1-4 (SC21-SC24)
• Located at The Alfred
• Great staff benefits!

The Department

The Social Work Department operates in accordance with the philosophy and goals of The Alfred. A focus on quality of life and participation in care is a primary goal of the Department. Social Work aims to identify and address the psychosocial impacts of illness and hospitalisation for patients and their families by providing a range of services which increase quality of life and participation in care. Social Work also assists patients and their families with a smooth transition from hospital to home.

The Role

The Social Worker is responsible for the provision of social work services to patients and their families/significant others within the Cancer Service areas, including Haematology, Medical Oncology and Bone Marrow Transplant (BMT). Flexibility to work within any of the units covered by the Social Work Cancer and Special Medicine Team is also essential, as is regular participation in the Department’s Priority System. The Haematology Oncology Outpatient Clinic (HOC) has been funded for a Social Worker to provide continuous care and support for patients and families whom continue to access their treatment across an outpatient setting.  Development and maintenance of community linkages are important in this position. 

The worker will be required to consult with staff, both Social Workers and those from other disciplines, on issues relevant to patient care and provide advanced case work expertise.

Consultation with Palliative Care Services, Bereavement Counsellor and advanced care planning will also form a key component of this role.

Flexibility to work within any of the Departments Service areas is also essential whether that be specified units on either a permanent or temporary basis.  He/she will also be expected to be an active contributor to team and departmental activities, such as quality improvement programs and development of service initiatives within the specialty area, and priority allocation.  Supervision of junior staff and students will also be expected, when appropriate.  Development and maintenance of community services and supports are also important in this position.

Skills and Qualifications Required 

• Eligibility for membership of Australian Association of Social Workers
• Bachelor of Social Work, or recognised equivalent
• Sound counselling skills with an understanding of adjustment to illness and hospitalisation/ grief and loss and bereavement support
• Advanced social work skills and experience as evidenced by (preferably) 4 or more years post qualifying experience (minimum of 3) and a demonstrated commitment to ongoing professional development
• A strong knowledge of cancer and the psychosocial impact that this area, and diagnosis, has on this patient population and individual coping
• Demonstrated experience in the area of acute health and an understanding of this diverse patient population
• Ability to develop and foster collaborative working arrangements and strategic alliances with relevant key stakeholders and organisations
• Demonstrated experience in social work student supervision and an interest and commitment in the professional supervision of staff

Staff Benefits

• Salary packaging & novated leasing through Maxxia
• Flexible heath insurance coverage through HCF Health Insurance
• Onsite car & bike parking opportunities, deducted pre-tax!!
• Fantastic onsite fitness facilities at The Alfred through Prosport Health and Fitness
• Childcare services at The Alfred managed by KU Children’s Services

For enquiries regarding this role, please contact Carly Maxwell, Operations Lead SW on (03) 9076 3026.

Applications close 11pm AEDT, Friday 10th January 2025.

Alfred Health is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to attracting and retaining a diverse workforce that reflects the community we serve.  Applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders are encouraged.

In accordance with the Health Services Amendment (Mandatory Vaccination of Healthcare Workers) Act 2020, health care workers in Category A or B roles (as determined by the department’s risk ratings) are required to be vaccinated against influenza or hold an acceptable medical exemption. 

Website: www.alfredhealth.org.au