In this section
At MACFC, we understand the potential day-to-day and longer-term psychosocial challenges of living with a chronic and progressive health condition in the lives of those with CF and their families. Each patient is assigned a dedicated social worker who provides tailored support for them and their families. The CF social worker works with you to help cope with or manage any practical, emotional, social, or financial challenges associated with living with CF. You can access support from your social worker during clinic visits and admissions, as well as via video or telephone consultations, and even at home if needed.
Our approach is grounded in social work values of respect, empowerment, equality, inclusion, human rights and partnership working. We recognise the impact of the social determinants of health, such as housing, education, employment, income, family and community networks, environment and access to healthcare, on health outcomes and wellbeing for CF patients and their families.
We offer advice and support in various areas such as:
- Preparing for transitions, including moving to an adult CF Centre, starting university or a career, or becoming a parent.
- Providing advice and assistance with accessing welfare benefits and charitable funds, budgeting, managing debt, and signposting to financial specialists.
- Ensuring you are informed of your rights and entitlements and supporting you to advocate for yourself where needed.
- Supporting you with reasonable adjustments in education, employment and health care to ensure equal access and inclusion.
- Connecting you with statutory, community and voluntary resources to address your wider social needs, such as poor housing, financial hardship, digital exclusion or food insecurity.
- Emotional support to help you cope with stress, uncertainty and decision-making related to your health, relationships and future planning.
- Accessing support to live safely and independently at home, including aids, adaptations and carer support, e.g. aids and adaptations or carer support.
- Planning for the future, including end-of-life care, advanced care planning, and memory work with families.