"Care request responses and actions"

Having been diagnosed with a severely damaged spine, caused by osteoparoses, and vitually unable to move without severe pain, my wife was (hurriedly) discharged from hospital. Prior to discharge, we had had a brief discussion with the hospital staff as to our being able to cope at home. I expressed reservations about what I needed to do and the suitability of what equipment/facilities we had at home. It was agreed that certain things could be provided. Before everything was agreed and in place she was discharged, at four hours notice and at a weekend, and brought home with only her medication, a copy of what was to be sent to her GP and a 'Golden Telephone number' (no details of who/what it was) for further help.

Having tried (with only limited success) to cope over the weekend, I rang number for help. Having been advised of who I was contacting, and the fact that the discharge records hadn't been updated onto the system, I outlined my situation to the (very helpful) staff member taking the call. Within an hour, despite the lack of information, there was visit by the assessor from the local Social Services hub (a gentleman named 'Paul') who, after a short discussion and assessment, organised for essential equipment to be provided by the local Red Cross and this was delivered later in the day.

The following day, on Paul's advice, we contacted my wife's medical practice to see what was to happen regards future treatment and medication. Again we had to provide them with details as they had not received the discharge information. We  asked about rehabilitation help to get her more mobile. The medication was updated and confirmed, but they were not sure about rehab. treatment. However, they would try to look into this.

A couple of days later, we were visited by Eve, a Physiotherapist from the local Social Services hub, who looked closed at our situation and was able to agree a plan for visits, treatment and help. Over the last six months she has been very professional and a great help, providing advice, equipment and encouragement for my wife, as well as instruction and advice for me as a carer. Where requirements were outside Eve's remit, she had the assistance of the hub's Occupational Therapist, Catherine, who again was excellent. Both of these ladies have been kind, courteous and very helpful. Where things were not quite right, they have been able to correct the situation and reorganise requirements with a maximum of efficiency and minimum delay. They have also been very helpful in referring us on to other specialist sections for future help and needs.

The help and advice received from the whole team has been first class. From my initial (rather desperate-sounding) call and the calm and efficient actions of the lady taking the call, to the response and advice from Paul and the visits and help from Eve and Catherine (not to mention the help from the Red Cross and their associated helpers) I can only be grateful.

The outcome has resulted in my wife now being able to leave her bed, walk  (albeit initially for short distances), with the prospect of further improvement. I must say a very big 'Thank You' to everyone involved from both me as carer and my wife as recipient of their help.