Whether you celebrate Christmas or not, the festive period is a time where families have the chance to get together – and we want to support all of our patients who are well enough to go home to do so, and spend time with those closest to them.
Patients usually recover faster and more fully at home, and being at home, surrounded by their families and friends, can make a real difference to their mental and physical wellbeing rather than being stuck in a hospital bed. Our discharge teams are able to arrange the clinical and care support that they need to get home, but as a family member or loved one you can also help us make those arrangements.
We know that Christmas is a busy time for many of us, but with your support, you can help us get your loved one home for Christmas.
What you can do to help
If you have a family member, a friend or a neighbour in hospital, there are a number of things you can do to support them leaving hospital, including:
- Stay in contact with the ward they are on so everyone is clear on the expected date of going home.
- Dropping in an appropriate set of clothes for them to come home in, so that they can stay warm and comfortable on their way home
- Talking to the ward or discharge team about any self-care needs that the patient has which you may be able to support with, such as when they need to take medicines.
- Giving the patient a lift home when they are ready to leave – unfortunately, NHS funded transport is only available to those who have a medical or physical need or are going to another NHS or social care service.
- Popping into their home to make sure it is warm, and has basic supplies such as milk, tea, and bread ready for their arrival.
Your help with these small but important issues can make a real difference to getting someone home for Christmas, and is greatly appreciated by all of our colleagues who are caring for your loved one.