NHS urges families to help loved ones get home from hospital quickly and safely

Discharge teams in hospitals across Derby and Derbyshire are encouraging families to help loved ones get home from hospital quickly and safely.
 
January is one of the busiest times for the NHS. Cold weather brings seasonal illnesses, and icy conditions, meaning hospitals are caring for lots of poorly patients.
 
Discharge teams work hard to make sure people can leave hospital safely and free up beds for those who need them most, but we need your help.
 
When someone is clinically ready to leave, a little planning can make a big difference. Being at home helps recovery, and loved ones can play a vital role in making that happen.
 
It’s OK to ask. People should feel confident asking care teams when they might be ready to go home and what the next steps are.
 
Supporting someone’s discharge doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some simple ways to make their return home easier:
  • Offer a lift home – Just because someone arrived by ambulance doesn’t mean they need special transport to leave. If they’re medically cleared, you can pick them up.
  • Prepare the home – Make sure it’s warm, safe, and welcoming.
  • Stock up on essentials – Bread, milk, and easy meals can make the first few days easier.
  • Check access – Ensure they have a key and can get in comfortably.
  • Be there for them – Spending a little time together helps them settle back in.
Maria Principe, Interim Executive Director of Commissioning at NHS Derby and Derbyshire, said:

“We want people to be able to return home, or to another suitable care setting, as soon as they are medically fit. This is much better for their recovery, both physically and mentally.

“Our multi-disciplinary teams in hospitals continuously assess people to find out when they are ready to go home and help get the right services in place to support them. But often something as simple as a wait for transport or a missing house key can create a delay. We’re urging people to do everything they can to help their loved ones get home quickly.”

 
Health and care teams across Derby and Derbyshire are working hard to provide wrap-around support for rehabilitation and reablement, so most people can go straight home from hospital rather than into another setting.
With a little planning and help from loved ones, getting home quickly and safely is possible, and better for recovery.