West Sussex care scheme helps 2,600 regain independence

A service helping thousands of people recover following illness, injury or surgery is proving central to West Sussex County Council’s work to develop sustainable adult social care services. <i>(Image: West Sussex County Council)</i>
A service helping thousands of people recover following illness, injury or surgery is proving central to West Sussex County Council’s work to develop sustainable adult social care services. (Image: West Sussex County Council)
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A short-term care scheme is helping people regain independence.

West Sussex County Council’s reablement service, delivered by Essex Cares Limited (ECL), supported more than 2,600 residents in the past year following illness, injury, or surgery.

Councillor Richard Bates, cabinet member for adults’ services, said: "Helping people remain independent in their own homes is an essential part of supporting healthier, more fulfilling lives.

"It’s encouraging to see so many of our residents benefiting from personalised support following illness, injury or surgery."

Of those who completed the programme, 76 per cent did not require further care and 97 per cent gave positive feedback.

Referrals rose by 17 per cent compared to the previous year, with community pathway referrals nearly tripling.

The scheme delivered around 126,000 hours of support.

ECL’s reablement team works closely with the council’s occupational therapy service.

Peter Fairley, managing director of ECL, said: "Kathy and Sarah’s stories demonstrate how the right support, at the right time, can make a lasting difference.

"Whether helping someone recover physically after a hospital stay or supporting a person to rebuild confidence and routine following mental health challenges, reablement empowers people to regain their independence in their own homes."

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