The Medical Social Work Department provides a range of practical and psychosocial services to women who are receiving care in the hospital and are experiencing additional challenges.
A special note for expectant women or new Mothers who are experiencing domestic violence
These challenges could include (but are not limited to):
- An unplanned/crisis pregnancy
- Coping with stress and change
- Relationship issues
- Limited social supports
- A pregnancy with medical complications for mum and/or baby
- An admission of a baby to our Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
- Mental health concerns
- Managing substance misuse in pregnancy
- Experiencing domestic violence during pregnancy
The service is free of charge and available to all women attending the hospital who require additional support.
Referrals are generally made through the treating team although women can also make contact directly with our service themselves.
Once a referral is received you will be contacted by the allocated social worker (either by teleephone or appointment letter) to set up an initial assessment. We would aim to have your appointment coincide with other hospital appointments where/if possible.
Your social worker can discuss with you what support options are available to you and work with you on developing a support plan. Social workers are trained to provide direct intervention in relation to many psychosocial challenges but will also provide links to community services for ongoing support where needed.
If you would like to access the service, you are welcome to contact us:
Monday to Friday
09:30 - 17:00hrs
Closed for lunch from 13:00–13:30 hrs
Tel: (01) 637 3236 or (01) 637 3526
Fax: (01) 637 3132
Email: socialworkadmin@nmh.ie
You can also call directly to the Medical Social Work Department (Ground Floor opposite the Front Hall) although an immediate appointment may not always be available; however, you will be offered an appointment as soon as possible depending on your circumstances.