Staying in hospital

There are times when you may need to stay in hospital. This can be difficult and if your stay is more than a day you may need to organise things at home. If you are going for a planned stay, then your GP should give you a choice of hospitals. Hospitals will suggest some of the things you need to think about before and during your stay.

Most hospitals have a social work team which can also help when you are ready to leave hospital. The social work team will help to make sure that any support you need is in place when you are ready to go home.

Carers Emergency Scheme

In the event of an emergency admission, you may not be able to tell anyone about the person you care for. The emergency scheme allows you to make provision in the event you are unable to care due to an emergency.

The carers centre is offering carers a free carers health check. Telephone 0161 883 0217.

Other things to think about

If you have a pet, you should ask a family member, friend, or neighbour to look after it while you're in hospital. If this isn't possible, ask to speak to a social worker who should be able to make arrangements.

You may want to cancel regular deliveries such as milk and papers. If your stay is going to be quite some time, you may want to let the Royal Mail know.

If you think that you'll be in hospital for more than four weeks and you get benefits, you should let the benefits agency know. You may also want to let your gas and electricity suppliers know.

Age Concern aftercare service

We work very closely with the ward staff, Accident and Emergency departments, doctors and nurses who may ask us to come and assess your situation to find out what help you may need before they decide to discharge you home.

If you are a carer and are being admitted to a ward for an overnight stay, we can check on the safety and comfort of the person you care for at home to give you peace of mind whilst you undergo treatment.

Contact: Joanne Brizland-Cullen
Email: jbc@ageconcernsalford.org.uk