Staffordshire County CouncilReturning from Hospital

What does it do?We have a team of social workers based in most hospitals and can arrange for an assessment to find out what help you could get. This assessment is done by a social worker or home care assessor. Other professionals may also be involved such as a doctor, nurse, Occupational Therapist, or Physiotherapist.
The views of relatives or friends will also be taken into account and if they provide a lot of care on a regular basis they may be entitled
to their own assessment. An independent person (an advocate) could also be present to make sure the patients wishes are heard.

What to do next

Ask a nurse or ward sister to contact the Social Work team.
Ask a relative or friend to contact us.

Who it is for: If you or someone you know are in hospital, and are worried about coping on returning home, we can give advice and information and may be able to give practical help and support.
Where it is available: Local service covering: Cannock Chase, East Staffordshire, Lichfield, Newcastle-under-Lyme, South Staffordshire, Stafford, Staffordshire Moorlands, Tamworth (Staffordshire).
How to access or apply for it: email: social.services@staffordshire.gov.uk or contact your local office: Cannock Chase District Council area - Tel: 01543 510300 East Staffordshire Borough Council area - Tel: 01283 239888 Lichfield District Council area - Tel: 01543 510800 Newcastle-under-Lyme Borough Council area - Tel: 01782 296005 South Staffordshire District Council area - Tel: 01902 434000 Stafford Borough Council area - Tel: 01785 276969 Staffordshire Moorlands District Council area - Tel: 01538 483112 Tamworth Borough Council area - Tel: 01827 475506
What to expect then: What Happens when the assessment is completed? Once the assessment is done a list of needs is drawn up called a Care Plan. This plan will say what services need to be provided, how often and if there are any charges. The plan needs to be signed which shows agreement to the services starting and a copy is given to the patient to keep. There should be regular reviews after being discharged and this includes reviewing the services provided. The first review will be after about six weeks and if care needs change a reassessment can be done which may mean a change in the care plan.
Classification(s): Care, Intermediate / after hospital care, Home from hospital
Info last updated: 18/03/2011.