Empowering Patients at RUH

Empowering Patients: New Initiative at Royal United Hospital, Bath

We are thrilled to share that Age UK Bath & North East Somerset is now part of an incredible new initiative from The Community Wellbeing Hub at The Royal United Hospital that is changing how patients receive care and support.

Team members are on hand when people leave the hospital and can refer, give advice and signpost to other organisations in the community. This could be anything from resolving employment or housing issues to accessing mental health support or regular well-being checks. This program has been making a significant impact since its launch in March, speaking to over 700 patients, families and carers, improving patient flow and providing personalised assistance to those needing it. 

Heading up the is Keri Grinham. The team is used to talking to people in all situations, but a particular moment has stuck with Keri.

"I was speaking to a man who had just had the all-clear from cancer and we were helping him link up with activities and other groups in the community. It was such a joyous moment to be supporting someone in such a positive way after such monumental life-changing news - we were all high-fiving!"

Currently being rolled out, is the next phase of the project, where ward staff will engage in meaningful conversations with patients using a simple checklist to understand their specific needs before they leave the hospital. Using a new 'Onward Admission Form' ward staff assess patients' needs proactively and make timely referrals to the support hub before they leave the hospital.

We'll keep you updated on our progress!