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Social work support

Supporting you and your whānau with social work support so you can live the best quality of life available to you.

Our social workers support individuals living with end-stage kidney failure and their whānau in a variety of meaningful ways.

Support begins with an in-home assessment, where we work together to understand your needs, goals, and the best path forward. 

Our mission is to deliver compassionate support at every step of the journey. Our dedicated social workers provide holistic support to individuals living with end-stage kidney failure and their whānau. It all begins with a compassionate in-home assessment, which is a chance for us to sit down together, understand your unique needs and goals, and plan the best path forward, tailored just for you.

How our social workers can support you
 

✓ Advocacy – connecting you and your family with the right supports and professionals. We work with other agencies to ensure they fully understand your needs and circumstances. 

✓ ACC support – assistance with navigating the ACC system and understanding your entitlements. 

✓ Income support – guidance on what financial support you may be eligible for if your kidney condition or treatment has affected your ability to work. 

✓ Housing support – help with applying for social housing, and supporting your ability to live independently. 

✓ Collaboration with professionals  - facilitating communication and coordination between you and other social service providers. 

✓ A listening ear – sometimes, what’s most needed is someone who truly listens. We're here for that too.

Is there a cost? 

There is no cost to receive support from the Kidney Society, and all of our services are free.

Do I need a referral?

Those with end-stage kidney failure can self-refer by phoning us on 09 278 1321 or emailing us at referral@kidneysociety.org.nz. Other people can also refer on your behalf for example, a GP, a member of your renal team or a family member.

The process

You will be contacted by our Social Worker following the referral being accepted. They will arrange with you a suitable day and time to come and visit to discuss what social work support you and your whānau may need. 

"I truly believe that his [client's] mood and beliefs have been uplifted, and he's now more able to freely talk about his condition and the steps and decisions ahead on his journey. He's been able to process the information you provided verbally (covered in the published information packs also) and refers to that visit as positive and informative. Thanks again, you do great work. I feel fortunate and grateful to have had your time..."

- Partner of a client receiving support

Need support?

We’re here to help - get in touch with our team to see how.

There’s more we can help with – take a look at our other services!