Home from Hospital Service introduced at Scarborough

Age UKs across North Yorkshire are working together to provide a new ‘REACT’ service to support patients returning home from hospital.

A new ‘Home from Hospital’ service has just been launched at Scarborough Hospital helping patients make a seamless transition from hospital to home by providing a variety of help and support. 

The service aims to support patients who aren’t eligible for a Social Services care package, but would benefit from some short-term low level support and reassurance following a stay in hospital.

From providing help with shopping, including on the day of discharge, to simply calling in for a chat the team help ensure that patients have everything they need for their return from hospital.

Helen Sams, React Home from Hospital Service Manager, explained: “Coming home after hospital can often be a daunting and anxious period.  The Home from Hospital service provides short term practical help and support to patients over 18 years of age. 

“Patients are referred to the service by the hospital discharge team. Support is initially provided on up to four visits and varies according to the patient’s needs.  It could be companionship whilst keeping a watchful eye on their recovery progress, shopping or making a snack. 

“Following the success of the service at York Hospital, we are delighted to have introduced a Home from Hospital service at Scarborough Hospital and we are already seeing how it is having a positive impact.”

Patient Nancy, explained: “Coming home to an empty house after being in hospital would have been very lonely but Jo was very kind.  I really looked forward to her visits.” 

While another patient commented: “The service was very helpful on my return home.  I was supported to do tasks that prior to my hospital stay would have been easy for me.  Having their help made my return home a lot easier.”

Mandy McGale, Director of Operations at Scarborough Hospital, said: “We are thrilled to have Age UK here onsite at Scarborough Hospital. They are helping provide a new service to our patients helping make the transition from hospital to home as seamless as possible. 

“The addition of this service will help improve patient experience on discharge. Having the team on hand will also help us with discharging patients earlier and safely, as well as reducing the likelihood of readmission.”

Volunteers are key to providing this vital support and Age UK is currently seeking more volunteers to help extend its Home from Hospital service.  It’s a flexible and very rewarding role which just requires reliability, a friendly positive nature, and common sense.  To find out more about volunteering contact Dee Jefferson on 01723 379058.   

Notes to Editors:

• REACT is a cooperative of Age UK which provides a service across North Yorkshire, including Scarborough, Malton, and Selby.
• The Age UK Home from Help service based at York Hospital is open to anyone over the age of 60 who lives in the City of York Area and needs support on discharge from hospital or intermediate care, including the day units and endoscopy.

20 May 2014