At Bear Cottage, social work is a vital part of the care we provide to families. Our social workers are dedicated to understanding the unique needs of each child and family, offering tailored support to strengthen emotional, social, and physical well-being.

Whether through practical assistance, navigating complex systems like NDIS or Centrelink, advocacy, or providing grief and bereavement support, our social workers ensure families feel cared for every step of the way. We recently welcomed two new social workers, Lynda Beer and Nicola Guy, who have quickly become an integral part of the Bear Cottage team.

Nicola brings over 20 years of social work experience across cancer services, palliative care and intellectual disability. 

I’ve been lucky to have called Sydney my hometown for most of my life. I started my Social Work career just up the hill at Manly Hospital many years ago, so it’s exciting to be working by the beach again and enjoying the special view from Bear Cottage on my workdays.

“I have worked across a range of health care and community settings including cancer services, palliative care, rehabilitation and intellectual disability. I have enjoyed working with children and adults as well as their families and carers in Sydney, the NSW Mid North Coast and up in Northern NSW.
“It is such a privilege to join the team at Bear Cottage. There is a special energy here, and it was evident on my first day how the whole team provides exceptional care to the children and families,” says Nicola.

Lynda recently returned to Australia after 20 years in London, where she specialised in working with children with disabilities and complex health needs. 

I’ve recently returned to Australia and wanted my children to experience life in the ‘lucky country,’ and I’ve missed the warm summers, cicadas, and of course, the flat white coffee!

“I love working within a multidisciplinary setting and supporting families, especially during challenging times like preparing for end-of-life care. Bear Cottage provides invaluable respite in a safe environment where vulnerable children are treated with love and respect,” says Lynda.

Together, Nicola and Lynda bring compassion, expertise, and dedication to Bear Cottage. They are here to support every family, ensuring they feel valued and cared for at every step of their journey.