AASW Recording | Voluntary Assisted Dying Laws in NSW: Implications for social work

Expertise in end-of-life conversations is a crucial social work skill in many domains of clinical practice. With the imminent implementation of Voluntary Assisted Dying legislation in NSW, this webinar focuses on the ethical and access issues for individuals who seek to avail themselves of medication to end their lives and addresses the social work role in this emerging space.

It is important for social workers to be across the details of the legislation and to navigate the decision-making process for patients and their families. Advocacy and negotiation skills will be required to address potential barriers such as access to information, service provider reluctance and family conflict. As with all social work practice the emphasis is on empowerment and self-determination, putting aside personal attitudes and beliefs.

This webinar was presented by the AASW NSW Branch.

Presenter

Kim Hobbs has a long career as a practitioner and researcher in oncology and palliative care social work at the Westmead Centre for Gynaecological Cancer in Sydney. She has had the privilege of supporting many women and families as they negotiate the multitude of challenges imposed by the diagnosis and treatment of life-limiting illnesses, including end-of-life conversations.