Being cared for at home

Get the care you want

Many people want to be cared for at home and there are many community services that can make this possible.

All hospital wards have a staff member who liaises with the District Nurse in the community to arrange home care for people who want to be discharged home. If you are in hospital but would prefer to be at home, the first step is to tell this staff member and discuss what support and services are needed to achieve this.

If you are at home but need more support the first step is to tell your GP or District Nurse. The District Nurse (sometimes called the community nurse or another specialist nurse) will coordinate your care at home and can be contacted through your GP practice.

The person caring for you at home may also need further help or support. Again, the first step is to tell your GP or District Nurse.

Planning your care

The District Nurse will discuss your care with you and the person caring for you, and will talk to you about different services and options that may be suitable for you, including the Marie Curie Nursing Service. Do tell the District Nurse what your wishes are and what support you think you need.

The District Nurse will put together a care plan which reflects your wishes and care needs. Don’t worry about what will happen if you change your mind about anything, or if your needs change later. The District Nurse will review the care plan regularly with you and amend it if necessary. If there are any changes in your wishes or your condition, you can ask the District Nurse to review the care plan.

The care plan should be kept in your home while you are receiving care. You are entitled to see your care plan and to discuss it with the District Nurse and any other healthcare professionals involved with your care.