Extra support for people leaving hospital but still need care at home is now available for West Norfolk patients.
Ten Housing with Care flats are now available across the county offering 24/7 care fo up to four weeks before patients go home.
They have been organised by a number of organisations including Norfolk County Council, NHS Norfolk and Waveney, and NorseCare.
Bill Borrett, the county councillor responsible for public health,  said: “We want to help people feel better prepared to return home after spending time in hospital and this new approach enables them to try out Housing with Care.
“If those who have been supported in Housing with Care, consider the option of moving to a scheme in the future it may well help them retain their independence and give them peace of mind that care is on hand if they need it.”
The county council says living in a Housing with Care scheme is different to living at a care home. This is because:
- Housing with Care schemes offer a more independent living option as people get older.
- People have their own tenancy, own flat, and own front door.
- Every flat has a living area, kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom.
- The scheme will have communal areas such as gardens, lounge areas and cafes to meet with friends and enjoy social events.
Mr Borrett added: “We know that when people start looking at housing options in later life it can get very confusing. To help, Norfolk County Council have information on the public webpages and has created short video guides to help people decide if a Housing with Care scheme is right for them”
You can find those here
Marcus Bailey, Winter System Director for Norfolk and Waveney Integrated Care System said: “We know that no one wants to stay in a hospital longer than they need to. This innovative use of Housing with Care flats helps people leave hospital when they’re medically fit and still receive care allowing our hospitals to care for very sick patients.”
