Social worker in the osteogenesis imperfecta team

Why is there a social worker in the osteogenesis imperfecta team?

As part of your multidisciplinary team, you will find a social worker within each of the centres of the osteogenesis imperfecta Highly Specialised Service in England. The 4 centres are in Birmingham, Bristol, London Great Ormond Street Hospital, and Sheffield.

We work as part of the multidisciplinary team to offer holistic care and support for our osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) patients and their families.

We recognise that having a diagnosis of osteogenesis imperfecta challenges many aspects of life for children and families in different ways and at differing points throughout childhood and adolescence. We use a strengths-based approach to look at what is working well, any worries and how we can support you.

What is a social worker and how can they help?

You may meet your child’s osteogenesis imperfecta team social worker at a clinic appointment or one of the osteogenesis imperfecta team members may ask you if you would like a social worker to contact you.

Social workers are trained professionals who work with people to find solutions to their problems and live better lives. This might involve organising support and making recommendations or referrals to other services and agencies. We can also work closely alongside our psychology team to provide support for children and families.

We may be able to assist with the following:

• assess the social impact of having osteogenesis imperfecta and provide support, advice and guidance
• support complex discharge plans where social needs are included
• advocate to ensure your voice is heard
• offer parental support
• work with other services, including nurseries and schools, to ensure you are getting the help you need. This includes the Local Authority when there are Child Protection concerns
• provide information and signpost to other agencies and charities
• support with any financial worries and help with accessing benefits
• assist with housing queries

What happens to the information I share with the social worker?

The social worker is a member of your healthcare team and communicates regularly with them to provide the best care for you. We will keep secure electronic notes on your child’s medical record, which your child’s healthcare team will have access to.

How can I make contact?

You can contact your social worker directly or speak to any member of the osteogenesis imperfecta team and we will contact you. We can offer support in person, virtually or over the phone on 0114 305 8444 or via mobile on 07748 188802.