Supporting People to Live Better Lives

A South Shields resident has praised a scheme which allowed him to be discharged from hospital early.

Bob Rowland, 82, had to be admitted to hospital after a fall which left him with a fractured elbow.

But rather than complete his recovery in hospital, he was discharged to Blenkinsop Court in South Shields where qualified care staff on site 24 hours a day have been able to help him on the road to recovery.

Bob, who normally lives on his own in Whiteleas, said: "It has been champion at Blenkinsop Court, the staff are great.

"I have much more confidence in myself, knowing that if I fall someone will be there to pick me up. It's definitely better than being in hospital."

Seven vacant flats at Blenkinsop Court have been renovated to support people discharged from hospital who need some additional support for up to two weeks before returning to their own home.

There are plans which could see the facility also cater for people with care and support needs to live at Blenkinsop Court on a long term basis.

Councillor Anne Hetherington, Lead Member for Independence and Wellbeing, said: "We understand that people are keen to leave hospital and return home as soon as possible.

"With the pandemic, it is also vital that we help the NHS to keep as many beds free as possible for those really needing to stay in hospital.

"By providing this opportunity, we not only achieve this goal but also enable people to live better and independent lives by making sure they have access to the right support when they need it."