Social work and palliative care now and in the future

Northern Ireland’s population is ageing rapidly, and with more people expected to be living longer with one or more terminal illness in the future, the role of social workers in delivering holistic palliative care and support has never been more important.

At the same time, the adult care and support system is undergoing profound change, and this process raises a number of crucial questions: what does the future look like for social work and palliative care under a transformed Health and Social Care system? How do we empower social workers to be community leaders in the delivery of truly person-centred care and support to those with terminal illnesses? And how can these ambitions be delivered in the current political and HSC context in Northern Ireland?

On 27 November 2018, Marie Curie will bring together a panel of expert speakers to explore these key issues and more. Taking place in NICVA, Belfast, the event will explore the crucial role social workers play in caring for people affected by terminal illnesses, and how this role may transform as part of the ongoing reform of adult care and support in Northern Ireland.

Delegates will hear from:

• Sean Holland – Chief Social Worker, Department of Health
• Michelle McAleenan – Principle Social Worker, Marie Curie Hospice Belfast
• Patricia Higgins – Interim Chief Executive, Northern Ireland Social Care Council
• Joan McEwan, Head of Policy and Public Affairs, Marie Curie Northern Ireland

There will also be an open discussion session with the audience, involving our speaking panel and Colm Gildernew MLA and Paula Bradley MLA.

To register for the event please click here.