Bridges of Care

At the heart of Montefiore, lies our incredible team of Social Workers.

Social Worker Hayley with Hunters Hill residents Bernie and Charmian

Social work is deeply rooted in the understanding and support of an individuals’ emotional and social needs. Social Workers often play a pivotal role in aiding individuals as they navigate significant life changes, acting as advocates, counsellors, and support systems. One such transition, often accompanied by anxiety and uncertainty, is the move into residential aged care.

This transition can be challenging for both the resident and their families, making the role of Social Workers in aged care facilities indispensable.

Unlike many aged care providers, Montefiore employs a full-time team of Social Workers across its three locations, providing continuous support, advocacy, and information to all residents. Hayley and Shoshana, our dedicated social workers at Montefiore’s Hunters Hill and Randwick Hostel locations, respectively, exemplify the dynamic and fulfilling nature of this profession. Their diverse backgrounds contribute to their unique approaches to supporting residents, yet their daily work shares many common threads.

“Our days are incredibly varied,” Hayley shares. “No two days are the same. We assist with everything from welcoming new residents to Montefiore, supporting our residents and their families with settling in, emotional, practical and grief and loss support.”

With over 15 years of experience at Montefiore, including six years with the Hostel unit, Hayley has become a familiar and trusted presence for residents. Her day often starts with joining them for breakfast in the dining room, fostering a sense of openness and accessibility.

Shoshana has been with Montefiore for two years and brings her expertise to Randwick Hostel, where she has implemented several innovative programs. One notable initiative is the “Welcome to Monte Group,” designed to ease the transition for new residents and their families.

“We meet with new residents in small groups, helping them with all the questions about life here,” Shoshana explains. “These sessions help people build connections with others, find areas of common interest, and realise that the emotions they are experiencing are shared by many others. It’s an example of the true wonder of real social work.”

Randwick resident Vera with Social Worker Shoshana

At Montefiore, Social Workers are integral members of the care team. Hayley and Shoshana both emphasise the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in their roles. Whether it’s working with dietitians to accommodate a resident’s dietary preferences or advocating for a resident’s independence, the social work team at Montefiore are committed to ensuring that residents’ voices are heard and respected.

“Because of the one-on-one time we get to spend with each resident, we gain insights into their lives and families that clinical staff may not be privy to,” Shoshana notes.

This deep understanding allows the Social Workers to provide emotional support distinct from the clinical care provided by nursing staff. Residents often speak of the comfort and reassurance they find in the Social Workers’ presence, a testament to the unique bond they share.

Hunters Hill resident Anne says, “Hayley is just the best. She cannot do enough for people, whatever we need, she is there for us. Before I lived here at Montefiore my husband was a resident and so I have experienced her support as a family member and as a resident. She is an essential part of my life here.”

Support for new admissions is a critical aspect of the Social Workers’ role at Montefiore. The transition into residential aged care can be daunting, but Hayley and Shoshana’s unwavering support helps ease this process. Residents and their families frequently express gratitude for the care and attention they receive during this period of change.

Randwick resident Vera reflecting on her experience of settling into life at Montefiore, shared, “The Social Workers here are amazing. Shoshana made a huge difference in helping me adjust to moving out of my home and coming to my new life at Monte. I know she is always available for a conversation, just to listen and provide me with support.”

Montefiore’s commitment to providing a holistic and enriching experience for its residents is evident in the various programs initiated by the Social Work team. The Men’s Shed, for example, offers a dedicated space for male residents to engage in hobbies and projects, reminiscent of activities they enjoyed in the broader community.

The presence of on-site Social Workers allows for the cultivation of long-term relationships with residents and their families. This continuity of care builds trust and ensures that Social Workers are a constant and reassuring presence.

Social Worker Angela speaks about her work at Montefiore

“We have a very personal approach to our work,” Shoshana says. “Showing love and care for the residents and letting them know we will go the extra mile for them is a part of our job. Our doors are always open.”

The work of Social Workers at Montefiore extends beyond providing support; it involves creating a reciprocal relationship where both residents and staff benefit.

Hayley reflects, “Everyone has a story and has the right to tell that story. I have benefited as much from the sharing of time with residents as I hope they have from the support I have offered.”

The role of the Social Work team at Montefiore cannot be overstated. They provide essential services that enhance the quality of life for residents, support them through significant life transitions, and maintain a warm, caring environment. Through their dedication and compassion, Hayley, Shoshana, and their colleagues at Montefiore are real examples of the transformative power of Social Work in aged care.

Montefiore’s Social Work team across Randwick, Woollahra, and Hunters Hill