Working as a Social Worker at Bristol Hospice
Social Workers play a critical role in hospice care by supporting patients and families emotionally, socially, and practically during a deeply personal time. At Bristol Hospice, Social Workers are trusted professionals who help guide families through complex situations with compassion, clarity, and respect.
This page is for Social Workers who want to understand what it is really like to work in hospice and how this role supports patients, families, and the care team.
Social Worker Roles in Hospice Care
Hospice Social Workers focus on emotional support, resource coordination, and advocacy. Responsibilities may vary by patient needs and care setting, but always center on supporting quality of life, coping, and informed decision making.
- Emotional and Psychosocial Support helping patients and families cope with illness, loss, and change
- Resource Coordination connecting families with community resources, counseling, and practical support
- Care Planning and Advocacy supporting patient goals, advance care planning, and family communication
What Working as a Social Worker Feels Like
Social Workers often describe hospice work as deeply human and purpose driven. You are present for honest conversations, emotional moments, and meaningful connections with patients and families.
Social Workers collaborate closely with Registered Nurses, Licensed Practical Nurses, CNAs, chaplains, physicians, and liaisons as part of an interdisciplinary team built on trust and respect.
Day to Day Responsibilities
Day to day responsibilities may include patient and family visits, psychosocial assessments, counseling, documentation, care planning meetings, and coordination with community resources.
Social Workers help ensure that emotional, social, and practical needs are addressed alongside medical care.
Schedule, Coverage, and Work Life Balance
Many hospice Social Worker roles follow structured weekday schedules, often with daytime hours. Work is typically organized by patient caseload or territory, supporting continuity and relationship building.
This structure supports work life balance while allowing Social Workers to provide thoughtful, consistent care.
Team Culture and Support
Social Workers are respected voices on the care team. Leadership is approachable, collaboration is encouraged, and professional judgment is valued.
This supportive environment allows Social Workers to focus on meaningful patient and family support without unnecessary friction.
Explore Social Worker Openings
If you are a Social Worker seeking a role where your perspective matters and your work supports real human connection, we invite you to explore current opportunities.
View Social Worker Jobs
Bristol Hospice and its subsidiaries are equal opportunity employers.