Maternity social work service walking alongside Rockingham mothers
RGH social workers, Sarah Hanson and Stephanie Andrade
Rockingham General Hospital (RGH) is going the extra mile to support maternity patients facing social challenges, particularly those experiencing family and domestic violence, providing a dedicated maternity social work service alongside its midwifery team.
The hospital’s social workers assist pregnant mothers experiencing family violence, homelessness, mental health issues, substance use concerns, or involvement in the child protection system.
The team supports patients from the start of their antenatal care through birth and into the postnatal period, offering vital resources and emotional support to keep them and their children safe.
While the midwifery team support patients through the medical and biological aspects of their care, the maternity social work team helps to ensure the emotional and psychological safety of clients, often with a trauma informed lens.
They offer patients a familiar face during vulnerable times and can link them to the community services they need for the safe arrival of their baby.
This could include anything from obtaining a family violence restraining order and home safety plans to finding financial assistance for essential baby items.
In line with the 2025 International Women’s Day priority – collaboration is key to advancing gender equality – the maternity social work service plays a critical role during an important phase of their lives.
RGH social worker, Stephanie Andrade (pictured right), believes the collaboration between the teams fosters meaningful progress in gender equality.
The maternity social work service provides holistic support by addressing the physical, emotional, psychological, and social needs of pregnant individuals and new mothers,” Stephanie said.
“The team educates women about their rights, empowering them to advocate for themselves
“This in turn fosters progress towards gender equality on both individual and societal levels.”
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