The first few weeks matter most
Coming out of hospital is when people are most at risk: weak from the stay, on new medication, and often more unsteady than before. Without support, a fall or a missed tablet can mean going straight back in. Good care in those first weeks helps people recover and reduces the chance of readmission.
Home from hospital care can be short term, while someone gets their strength back, or the start of longer-term support if their needs have changed.
Our preferred minimum visit. Enough time to do things properly and get to know the person we're caring for.
Working with the discharge team
Hospital discharge can be overwhelming, for the patient and the family. Our team works with the hospital staff, the patient and the family to agree a care plan, so the help is ready when they get home rather than days later.
For families in Southampton that usually means Southampton General Hospital, run by University Hospital Southampton. Professionals can refer through our patient referrals page.
What a visit covers
Typically: making sure medication is taken at the right time and dose, help moving around the home safely, washing and dressing, meals that suit any new diet, and checking the house for hazards like loose rugs and trailing cables. Carers also go along to follow-up appointments and keep the family and health professionals updated.
Questions about home from hospital
Can care be in place on the day of discharge?
Tell us as soon as you know a discharge date is coming. The more notice we have, the more likely we can have care ready for the day they come home.
Is home from hospital care only short term?
No. It can be a few weeks of support while someone recovers, or it can carry on as long-term care if their needs have changed.
Can the hospital refer to you directly?
Yes. Discharge teams, social workers and other professionals can refer through our patient referrals page or by phone.