Hospital Homecoming

Hospital Homecoming aims to enable speedier discharge from Acute Hospital Settings for lonely and isolated patients who require help to allow them to be discharged. It is supported by community groups and volunteers.

It is hoped that Hospital Homecoming will reduce delayed discharge and enable patients to recover quicker in their own homes and reduce the risk of subsequent readmissions.

The impact so far

The project, whilst not live yet, is raising lots of questions about how different sectors can work together, what the barriers to collaboration are and the potential strengths and opportunities.

There is recognition that there is a need for the project and the Third Sector are well placed to deliver it. In bringing together the NHS, Health and Social Care Partnerships and the third sector it is hoped that there will be a greater understanding and acceptance of how these sectors can work together and enhance patient care in the future.

Advice for others

The NHS holds the key to enabling change to happen; but there are difficulties for organisations outwith the NHS to navigate systems and processes and communicate with the right people to kickstart change.

The Third Sector feels unequal in the relationship between the NHS and Health and Social Care Partnership and does not operate in the same way, but there is great value in its diversity, flexibility and responsiveness.

For other organisations or groups thinking of doing something similar, ensure that there is evidence of need and support for change. Buy in from advocates in other sectors who have authority to make change is key. Understand the differences between the sectors and work to strengths.

Try and understand the systems and processes within the NHS before you start, obtaining a Data Sharing agreement is a lengthy process.

To find out more

Please contact the below for more information:

aimi.blueman@avashire.org.uk or call 07585 507524

eleanor.hepburn@acvo.org.uk or call 07815008704

gill@tsimoray.org.uk or call 07935754637