Our service empowers older individuals who have visited Accident and Emergency at Pembury or Maidstone Hospital to return home instead of enduring prolonged waits for ambulances and potential hospital readmission's. The service is free for patients being discharged from Maidstone & Pembury Hospital only.

Catering to older residents in Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells, particularly those living alone or serving as caregivers, our service prioritises a safe discharge from the hospital. We offer support by accompanying patients home and ensuring they settle in safely.

Additionally, we help by transporting clients' equipment provided by occupational therapists, which may not be feasible in an ambulance. Moreover, we assist in picking up patient's medications, further contributing to a seamless and stress-free transition from hospital to home.

How does the service work?

Our comprehensive service extends support to clients recently discharged from the hospital, encompassing a wide array of offerings:

• Safely transporting client’s home and ensuring their comfort upon arrival.

• Conducting a thorough risk assessment to enhance safety.

• Procuring any immediate shopping essentials.

• Preparing a comforting cup of tea or a snack as needed.

• Performing light housekeeping tasks, including tidying up and changing bed linen.

• Setting up and positioning any equipment received from the hospital.

• Aiding in medication management.

• Assisting with straightforward form-filling tasks.

• Supporting self-care and confidence-building endeavours.

• Providing guidance on accessing additional services through effective signposting.

When is this service available?

Monday to Sunday, 7 days a week, 1pm to 8pm (except bank holidays)

This free service is for residents of Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells who are aged 55 and over, especially those who live alone, are carers or have had a fall.

Please ask the staff nurse to contact the Take Home and Settle Worker on duty.