Sharyl Brockett and her Guide Dog Daisy are welcome new members of Bass Coast Health’s (BCH) team.
Sharyl has relocated from Geelong to bring her social work skills to the surgical and medical ward at Wonthaggi Hospital.
In her role, Sharyl ensures patients have adequate services and assistance in place for when they return home, either through family support or formal agencies.
“A patient may have had an injury or illness and require extra support to return home. We can assist to arrange these supports and services to ensure they receive the care they need at home,” she said.
“I can also provide emotional support to patients on the ward and can arrange referrals to our team of community counsellors if they need help with any personal matter.”
As she lives with a visual impairment, Sharyl is accompanied by her Labrador-Retriever Daisy, who is not only helping Sharyl navigate the hospital but also form bonds with patients and staff alike.
“Daisy certainly helps with breaking down any barriers to conversation, especially if a patient is anxious and finding things really difficult. Having a dog helps them to calm down. Daisy gets paid in weekly dog treats for her work,” she said.
This is Sharyl’s first role in a hospital; she has previously worked in community services and with government agencies.
“I’m really enjoying it. I’ve found everybody to be welcoming. Accessibility has been a problem for me in the past but here I’ve been supported in the use of assistive technology,” she said.
“I’m pleasantly surprised by the knowledge and interest that the BCH IT team already had regarding assistive technology. The support and time they have put in to help set-up programs so I can do my role has been amazing.
“I use a computer program that enlarges my screen and reads out everything that is on my screen. I’m also getting a new device – Envision glasses – that are able to read handwritten notes.
“The Envision glasses camera will even read street signs when I’m out and about, and read the names back to me. The technology just blows me away.“
Sharyl said she is proud of Bass Coast Health for supporting her and Daisy, and for embracing the assistive technology she uses.
“I feel this is one of the most supportive workplaces that I have worked in,” she said.