East of England

This team, who work as part of the ELFT Community Services, have been central to lead the creation of Integrated discharge teams across Bedfordshire, which includes representation from both local authorities, Central Bedfordshire Council and Bedford Borough Council, hospital staff in both of the Bedfordshire Foundation Trust. 

The success of these new teams has been in the collaborative approach all partners had brought to the table. There was senior leadership 'buy in' to the concept off discharging patients out of the hospital and then reviewing their ongoing health and social care needs in a different setting with the overarching aim of getting the patient back to their normal place of residence.
The teams have worked closely with the care homes in this area (Bedfordshire has one of the largest number of care homes in the country), to ensure support has been offered for their newly admitted patients. This support has been vital as the care homes have had to find resilience in coping with the national response to Covid 19. All components of the team have been integral to its success no matter the level of seniority all team members have played a vital role. Patients have benefitted from the quick discharge from hospital and feedback received to date has been very positive. The learning from the creation of the teams has been able to influence the local health and social care cell to ensure the strategic direction is in keeping with the needs of the local population.

Nominated by: Rachel Hopkins MP
During this difficult period, the team has provided excellent care to help patients return home, which has benefitted patients’ wellbeing and supported our Covid-19 response. The whole team thoroughly deserves this national recognition.