When the end comes at the beginning: What social work has to offer in palliative care for children and adolescents

Capability: Emerging and Evolving

This presentation will explore the important field of paediatric palliative care and the significant and varied roles that social workers hold in this context. Together we will explore the unique experience of children and adolescents with palliative care conditions, in particular how we communicate with them about death and dying. This presentation will also look to recognise the many layers of ever present grief and loss for families as they navigate palliative care for their children

Who should attend?

This webinar is aimed for social workers who have some practice experience in health social work and are interested in paediatric palliative care. Social work students or social workers are new to this area will also receive benefit, as will those who are experienced in palliative care who would benefit from a deeper understanding about the paediatric context.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this program, participants will be able to:

• Describe paediatric palliative care and how it differs to adult palliative care

• Explore the role of social work within the context of paediatric palliative care

• Develop an understanding of how to talk to children and families about death and dying

• Recognise aspects of grief and loss and the impact on families

AASW Credential: Mental Health and Clinical