What IASS caseworkers do

IASS caseworkers can help you by providing:

• Independent information, advice and support in dealing with money worries, claiming welfare benefits, accessing social care, etc
• One-to-one support and mediation
• Information about health related local services and other advice and redress agencies.

IASS caseworkers deal with concerns and complaints about any NHS service, regardless of where the service was delivered.  This could include your hospital, GP, pharmacist, a neighbouring health board or other NHS service providers.

IASS caseworkers do a wide range of work - they may:

• Carry out home visits (for people who are housebound, have caring responsibilities, etc)
• Accompany you to, and support you at meetings
• Help you gather and access medical and other records
• Make phone calls, write letters and help you with form filling
• Provide information
• Help you access the treatment, care or support you need
• Explain how to use the NHS complaints process and advise you on your options
• Signpost you to other organisations, local support groups or sources of information
• Undertake a benefits check to identify possible ways of maximising family income
• Identify other issues they can help you with

These case studies show how IASS caseworkers have helped patients and their families.

Caseworkers can help represent you to ensure that that your wishes and needs are respected and acted upon.  They have experience in dealing with people who are upset by problems affecting their health, by aspects of their care and treatment, or other areas of their lives.