Help your loved ones get home in time for Christmas

As Christmas approaches, the NHS is urging local people to do all they can to help their relatives, friends, and neighbours leave hospital promptly in time for Christmas if they are medically ready.

As winter sets in and seasonal illnesses circulate, hospitals face increased pressure, with more patients arriving sick and urgent space needed for those requiring emergency care.

Throughout the year, hospitals often care for patients who are clinically ready to be discharged. While they wait to leave, other people may have to wait longer for an emergency admission or a hospital bed. Evidence shows that patients recover better—physically and mentally—when they leave hospital as soon as it is safe to do so. Prompt discharge helps reduce risks associated with longer stays, including loss of independence, mobility, and wellbeing.

Lisa Walker, Quality Matron, Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust (SaTH), said:
“Being at home with loved ones is the best gift for patients at Christmas. It supports recovery, comfort, and wellbeing. With the festive period bringing extra pressure to hospitals, we are very grateful for the help families give to ensure patients can get home safely and quickly.”

There are some simple tips to follow to Help Your Loved Ones Get Home for Christmas:

1. Keep in Touch - Check in with the hospital team to know when your loved one is expected to be discharged.
2. Prepare Their Home - Make sure heating, electricity, and water are working; clear hazards; and stock up on festive but nutritious meals to help recovery.
3. Ensure Comfort - Bring warm clothes, personal items, and ensure your loved one has access to a phone and essentials for the journey home.
4. Collect Promptly - Arrange transport as soon as the hospital confirms your loved one is ready. If you need help, ask the ward team for guidance.
5. Share Support Information - Explain what support is available in the community and check any leaflets or guidance provided by the hospital.

Dr Rachel Gallyot, Chief Medical Officer for the Integrated Care Board Cluster for NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin and NHS Staffordshire and Stoke-On-Trent, added:
“Let’s get home for Christmas. The sooner you leave hospital, the sooner your recovery and recuperation will begin. You will only leave hospital when you are medically well enough, and your care team will talk to you and your family regularly about your discharge and how best to prepare for it.

“Christmas is a special time, and timely discharge is vital to help our hospitals cope with increased demand. If your family member is ready to go home, your support can make all the difference not just for them, but for the next patient waiting for urgent care.”

Across Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin, health and care staff are committed to helping patients recover and return home safely as quickly as possible. By supporting timely discharge, families play a crucial role in helping the sickest patients access care when they need it.

For more information visit: Hospital Discharge - NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin

A short video from Lisa Walker, Quality Matron from SaTH on how families can help patients return home safely is available here or below: Think Which Service Hospital Discharge 2025