ELDERLY patients in Sedgefield borough are now able to leave hospital and return to the comfort of their own homes with live-in care.

The new 48-hour discharge scheme is supported by Durham County Council, and has been developed in consultation with the County Durham and Darlington Health Authority.

It means that older people will be supported by a live-in carer for the first 48 hours after discharge from hospital.

The extra support helps to build confidence, allows reorientation, provides a safety net in case of emergency and enables an accurate assessment of health and social needs to be made.

Pam Scott, a care manager with the council's social services department, said: "The scheme is for vulnerable older people who live alone or with a frail carer. They may have been admitted to hospital with a chest infection or a mild stroke, for example.

"Ward sisters have been asked to identify patients who have made a good recovery, but may need support for the initial 48 hours after going home.

"Their hospital bed will be kept open for them in case their condition deteriorates and re-admission is necessary."

The scheme, which only operates in the Sedgefield area at the moment, helps assist the transition from hospital to home.

One of those to have benefited from the project is 78-year-old Morris Harris, from Newton Aycliffe.

He said: "I much preferred being able to come back to my own home."

The scheme helps to prevent delayed discharge, in line with the council's Joint Investment Plan and supporting the objectives set out in the Health Improvement Programme.