NHS Asks Families to Help Patients Leave Hospital Before 10am

When a relative or friend is ready to leave hospital, getting them home quickly can make a real difference to their recovery. Health leaders in Cornwall are asking families and friends to help make that happen.

NHS Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Integrated Care Board says home is often the best place for people to recover and start moving again, with familiar surroundings, warmth and proper rest playing a key role.

A simple ask from the NHS

Chief Medical Officer Dr Chris Reid said families can help by responding promptly when they are contacted about discharge arrangements.

Chris said: “We really appreciate your support in helping friends and family to come home, please respond quickly to calls from us about them leaving hospital and if you’re picking them up, please ensure they’re able to leave before 10am.”

The aim is to help people get home in time for lunch, settle back in comfortably and reduce the need for longer hospital stays.

How friends and family can help

People supporting someone leaving hospital are encouraged to plan ahead where possible. This includes:

• Making sure the home is comfortable for their return

• Arranging help around the home

• Organising transport, clothes and shoes for discharge

• Putting the heating on if needed

• Stocking up on food and any medicine they might need

• Making sure they have keys to get back in

Anyone unsure about what is needed is advised to speak to the ward team.

Why leaving hospital matters

Spending longer than necessary in hospital can have a real impact, particularly for older people. Just one week in hospital can lead to a 10 percent decrease in muscle mass. Longer stays also increase the risk of infections, pressure ulcers and falls, and can reduce the chances of regaining independent living.

Support available to help people get home

There are services in place to support people returning home from hospital.

Some patients may be eligible for a one off Personal Health Budget to help pay for services that support their return home. Ward staff can provide information about this.

There is also the Community Gateway service, run by Age UK. The service is free to call or email and can help with information about local activities, transport to the supermarket, shopping and food.

The team can be contacted on 01872 266383 or by email at welcome@kernowgateway.org.uk.

Together, quick responses and a bit of preparation can help loved ones get home sooner and recover in the place that suits them best.