Cheshire East Council and NHS launch innovative Home First animation

Cheshire East Council and partners in the NHS have launched an innovative animation which shows how people can be better supported in their own home and how this will help to reduce hospital readmissions.

This initiative, which aligns with the NHS's long-term plan, aims to empower people to receive the right level of care and treatment for their health conditions within the comfort and familiarity of their own homes.

The Home First programme will provide comprehensive support to people with complex care needs, including those with chronic illnesses, and disabilities.

A multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals, including physicians, nurses, social workers, and occupational therapists, will work closely with people and their families to develop personalised care plans that address their unique needs and preferences.

Key features of the Home First programme include:

• Early intervention and proactive care: Identifying potential health risks early on and providing timely interventions to prevent complications and hospital admissions.
• Person-centred care: Tailoring care plans to individual needs, preferences, and goals, ensuring people receive the right care at the right time.
• Enhanced co-ordination of care: Streamlining communication and collaboration among healthcare providers to eliminate gaps in care and ensure seamless transitions between services.
• Empowerment of people and families: Providing people and their families with the knowledge and skills they need to manage their health effectively at home.

Councillor Jill Rhodes, Cheshire East Council adults and health committee chair, said:

"Home First represents a significant step forward in our commitment to providing high-quality, people-centred care.

"By focusing on preventative care, personalised support, and people empowerment, working with partners in the NHS, we aim to reduce hospital readmissions, improve outcomes, and enhance the overall well-being of our community."

The Home First animation is a bespoke video aimed at health and social care staff to explain the Cheshire East model of support and is just one of the projects of the overarching Home First programme of work which commenced in 2021.

The programme’s success will be evaluated based on various metrics, including reductions in hospital readmissions, improvements in satisfaction, and enhanced quality of life for people receiving care and treatment in the place they call home.

Mark Wilkinson, Cheshire East place director at NHS Cheshire and Merseyside, said:

"We know that many people recover better at home, and we are confident that Home First will make a positive impact on the lives of people and families.

“Staying in hospital for longer than necessary has a negative impact on outcomes and we need to ensure people are given the chance to continue their lives at home, which is so vital for their long-term wellbeing.

"This innovative approach aligns with our vision of providing people-centred care that empowers individuals to continue to live healthy, independent lives within their own homes."

The Home First in Cheshire East animation can be viewed here...