The Journey Together Walking With You: Hospice Social Work
Sep 10, 2025
Aoife Molloy, inpatient hospice social worker supporting patients, families and children through end-of-life care. Kate Hawney, community and inpatient social worker providing therapeutic, person-centred support from referral to bereavement. They discuss palliative care myths, working with children, navigating difficult conversations, carer self-care, memory-making and holistic support in dying and grieving.
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Always Follow The Patient's Lead On Family Involvement
- Let the patient lead who is involved; offer family support only with the patient's permission.
- Kate says support is offered across family systems but always based on the patient's choice and consent.
Talk To Children Using A Jigsaw Approach
- Include children using clear, age‑appropriate language and gradual “jigsaw” updates.
- Aoife suggests naming the illness honestly, giving information piece by piece, and following the child's lead on questions.
Inclusion Can Be Creative Beyond Visits
- Children can be included in different ways; inclusion doesn't require direct contact with the patient.
- Kate and Aoife describe alternatives like cards, photos, handprints and play area choices to maintain connection.