A SCHEME to support patients, free up hospital beds and lower re-admission rates has been launched in Hambleton and Richmondshire.
The Red Cross Home from Hospital Service aims to provide practical help and emotional support for people who are leaving hospital to return to an empty home.
A team of 11 volunteers, based at the Friarage Hospital in Northallerton, will support patients, telephoning and visiting them for up to six weeks to make sure they are coping with all aspects of daily living, helping them to regain their independence and rebuild their confidence.
The scheme, which is a partnership between the British Red Cross and the hospital, is designed to enhance any support that social and community health workers may provide.
At the moment there are 60 similar schemes at hospitals around the UK.
Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer can call the British Red Cross on (01609) 772186.
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