The HOSPITAL AFTERCARE SCHEME accepts referrals from anyone including self referrals, referrals by relatives, health professionals and Social Services.

It is designed to support elderly clients during those first few important weeks following hospital discharge when they have only limited support from family and friends and when confidence may be at a low ebb. The overall aim is to encourage a return to independent living as far as possible through a series of visits when volunteers will assist with small tasks, talk through problems and fetch modest amounts of shopping where necessary.

Our volunteers can 'signpost' to other agencies and resources where there are needs such as for the services of a cleaner or where a client's abilities may have been overestimated and help is needed with personal care for a short time.

Sometimes a volunteer can accompany on an outing for shopping or to the bank for example.

If you think volunteering to offer this short term support to an elderly person would fit in with your lifestyle and you could spare a minimum of one hour a week for four to six weeks, please contact Dawn Snow on 01594 845621. Travelling expenses will be reimbursed.