People often recover better in their own homes when it is safe for them to do so. Good discharge planning helps ensure that patients, families and carers understand what support is available, who to contact if they need help, and what steps to take during recovery.
There can be a lot to organise when going home after a hospital stay. South East London partners have developed a range of resources that explain what to expect before, during and after leaving hospital.
Whether you are preparing to leave hospital yourself, supporting a friend or relative, or caring for someone after discharge, these resources can help you feel informed, confident and prepared for the next stage of care.
If you have questions about your discharge arrangements, please speak to the hospital team caring for you. They will be able to discuss your individual needs and any support that may be available.
Getting ready to leave hospital guide
Our discharge guide provides practical information for people who may need support when leaving hospital. It explains:
- How discharge planning works
- Questions patients and families may wish to ask hospital staff
- Support that may be available at home
- Information about care needs assessments and carers’ assessments
- What to expect on the day of discharge
- Organisations and services that can provide additional advice and support
Cynthia and Lillian’s story
Hear from Cynthia and her sister Lillian as they share their experience of leaving hospital and recovering at home. Through their perspectives as a patient and a carer, they talk about what helped them prepare for discharge and the support they received along the way.