Top tips for supporting your loved one on their return home from hospital

Monday, 14 April 2025

With Easter weekend approaching, the Medical Director for Cheshire and Merseyside is showing people how they can work with their local NHS to support their loved ones to return home following a stay in hospital. 

Research shows following simple steps when getting a loved one’s home ready for their return from hospital will reduce the risk of being readmitted.

Now, in a new series of short videos, Professor Rowan Pritchard Jones, Medical Director for NHS Cheshire and Merseyside, says there are some easy, practical steps we can all take to support loved ones who are ready to return home from hospital.

Professor Rowan Pritchard Jones said: 

Information:

“The benefits of recovering at home in a familiar and relaxed environment are huge. As soon as our loved ones are medically fit to leave hospital, home is exactly where they should be. People recover faster at home surrounded by what they love and who they love. 

“Family members and friends can play a big part to support them leaving hospital by talking to ward staff, organising transport and suitable clothing for the journey home and having a simple check through the home to ensure its ready for their arrival and that everything is in easy reach.”

What you can do to help

  • Make sure they have their prescription medicines available, or check if they need help picking them up
  • If your loved one needs help while GP practices or pharmacies are closed, NHS 111 is here for them. 
  • Ensure they have enough to eat and drink
  • Make sure there are no trip hazards to prevent falls
  • Ensure their house is adequately heated and that they have clean bedding
  • Provide emotional support – leaving hospital can sometimes feel overwhelming
  • Know who to contact if you need help

Other topics covered the series include staying active in hospital, supporting with medication, hydration and falls prevention

Watch the videos now on NHS Cheshire and Merseyside’s YouTube channel.

Hospital staff will decide when you are ready to leave hospital and discuss your discharge plan with you. If you need care and support after you leave, staff will talk with you about how you can get this. They will work with social care staff, if necessary, to plan your short-term care.

For advice on where to go for all your other healthcare needs during Easter, visit our webpage.