Spotlight on Social Worker Christiana Skinner

What was your previous job?

I worked at Oamaru Hospital for over 14 years and held both Senior Social Worker and Clinical Needs Assessors roles over that time.

What prepared you for this role?

My previous roles in medical social work and clinical needs assessment entailed working with palliative patients and also completing palliative care needs assessments.

You’ve been here a few weeks now, how have you found it? Any surprises?

The Otago Community Hospice has very high professional standards (no surprises there), and I enjoy working in a team of very dedicated people, who all specialise in palliative care and all work towards the same aim of providing the best service to inpatients, community clients, and their whānau.

What appeals to you most about the role?

I like driving and I enjoy having a split role between Dunedin and North Otago, which makes the role more varied, as each area has its own unique aspects and Dunedin presents new learnings for me. I also appreciate the professional development opportunities, and the potential for being able to develop the Social Work role further according to need.

What appeals to you most about working with hospice?

I feel very privileged to be able to walk alongside our inpatients, community clients, and whānau, and to be able to provide support that helps them navigate this complex stage of their lives.

What other interests do you have?

I get a lot of enjoyment out of peaceful pursuits, like walking and being surrounded by nature, the solitude of NZ’s remote wilderness areas with their unique fauna and flora, and wildlife watching. I also love photography, reading, science and music.