The challenge
An 84 year old person was admitted to hospital following a stroke. Following recovery, they were moved to a community hospital for rehabilitation, with a view to returning to their home. However, it was found that there was insufficient space in their home for a hospital bed and other necessary equipment, due to a cluttered environment.
The solution
The Lightbulb project, hosted at Blaby Council, brings partners together to meet people’s health needs inside their homes; for example, installing equipment such as shower chairs and offering energy advice.
The hospital enablement team coordinated a meeting with the Lightbulb Project and the person’s family, and an agreement was reached on clearance of the hallway and lounge, which happened within a week.
Impact
This enabled hospital equipment to be delivered and the person was discharged home with a package of care. The intervention costs were much less than the cost of a hospital bed or residential placement.
During 2022/23 the Lightbulb Project helped over 900 people who were discharged from mental health and acute hospitals.