British Red Cross Support at Home Service

If you're returning from hospital, the British Red Cross Support at Home service can make sure you have everything you need for your first 24 to 72 hours back at home. They may then provide up to 12 weeks of support depending on the level of help you need.

The Red Cross will assess your needs and help you decide what goals you want to achieve with their help. They can offer practical and emotional support including:

• Transport home from the hospital
• Door-to-door transport for essential health-care journeys
• Help with everyday tasks (for example, picking up prescriptions and shopping)
• Companionship
• Rebuilding confidence
• Help arranging for bills to be paid
• Short-term use of a wheelchair and toilet aids.

Their volunteers receive full training to support you in meeting your goals.

You can be referred by someone else (such as a hospital, primary care trust or your GP) or you can contact your local service yourself.