Social workers in palliative care work collaboratively with members of the multi-disciplinary team, supporting patients and their families as they adjust to the news of a life-limiting or terminal diagnosis. The diagnosis of a life-limiting illness brings about strong and powerful emotions, raising issues of transition, adaptation and loss.

The social worker helps patients and family members to express their thoughts and feelings relating to illness. Patient’s and family’s mental health and coping mechanisms are challenged by the changes, losses and uncertainty of illness. The social worker provides support to enhance their abilities to adjust and adapt. This can include exploring issues of a private and sensitive nature. Some new issues will arise and others are refocused in the light of a terminal diagnosis, for example, past losses, regrets, family secrets and complex relationships. Social workers also offer support and guidance to colleagues in managing these complex situations.