Discharge Support

The key to achieving a safe and timely discharge from hospital, is to start planning early, from the point of admission. 

Most people are keen to get home as quickly as possible following a stay in hospital, but being discharged can be a stressful experience. That’s where the Home from Hospital team can come in to offer help. We can offer practical support to you, and those closest to you, to help ensure that your discharge is safe and timely.

Support for discharge

Discharge Support is a free service provided by WECAN (West Essex Community Action Network) for the residents of Epping Forest, Harlow and Uttlesford. As a local charity, our staff and volunteers work in partnership with other organisations to ensure a joined-up approach to supporting you and maintaining your independence.

Your journey home starts with a simple question – “What do you need help with?”

What we can offer

We currently provide help for patients in Princess Alexandra Hospital in Harlow.  We will work with you and your family to find practical solutions which could include:

  • Help with everyday tasks (for example picking up prescriptions and food shopping)
  • Provide a free trial to a hot meals service
  • Maintain welfare telephone calls post discharge
  • Provide telephone befriending and companionship
  • Move furniture and help with home maintenance
  • Install key safes for easy carer/emergency access to properties
  • Advise and install technology enabled care devices, from personal alarms to voice-activated lights and appliances.

For more information and to request a meeting with one of our staff in Princess Alexandra Hospital please email homefromhospital@westessexcan.org 

To Refer

Patients and carers can self-refer using our secure online form: Self Referral Form : WECAN Hospital Discharges (pm-apps.co.uk)

Our service is completely free for residents living in Essex. Once we receive your details, a member of our team will come to visit at bedside in the hospital ward.