Home From Hospital

Service availability

These services are available to residents of West Sussex.

Due to Coronavirus our services are under constant review and are subject to change. For the latest information on services where you live please contact us.

tel: 01903 731 800

email: info@ageukwsbh.org.uk

The aim of the service is to support vulnerable people to regain the level of independence they enjoyed prior to their hospital stay and to boost confidence and physical and mental wellbeing. The service will provide an initial home assessment (once the person has returned from hospital) and provide information to minimise risks such as trip hazards in addition to ensuring the heating is on and there is food available. Age UK Horsham District, Age UK West Sussex & Guild Care (Adur & Worthing) are working in partnership to deliver a countywide Home from Hospital service for people living within West Sussex.

This service is currently available from Arun, Chichester, Horsham and Mid Sussex and Crawley.

I am coming out of hospital, what can I expect?

We will visit you to make sure you are safe, have what you need and the relevant services in place should you need them. We will ensure that you are not isolated following your return home from hospital and if necessary, arrange for a volunteer to visit for up to six weeks to re-enable you to regain your confidence and independence.

What else should I know about the service?

The service will match a volunteer to people requiring an ongoing service. They can provide practical support, work to rebuild confidence and reduce the risk of isolation. We offer up to 6 weeks free practical support after discharge from hospital for residents living in West Sussex.

All our volunteers have an enhanced DBS check.

Even if you have already made arrangements such as home help or personal care, our Home from Hospital volunteer could:

• Collect prescriptions and shopping
• Prepare a light snack
• Accompany you to a hospital or doctor's appointment
• Provide information on other services or equipment you need
• Pop in for a chat
• Assist with finances/paperwork through our Information and Advice service
• Liaise with a wide range of other services on your behalf
• Help with a pet
• Return library books
• Small practical tasks in the home

The service is unable to provide:

• Assistance with personal care
• Dressing wounds
• Lifting clients
• Counselling

How do I get this service?

It's easy to make a referral. Either contact the co-ordinator in your area (details below) or you can ask a ward nurse, social worker, GP, friend or relative to contact us on your behalf.

There is no charge for this service as it is supported by West Sussex County Council.