‘Home First’ campaign launches across Norfolk

The benefits of recovering in your own bed after surgery or other hospital treatment are being promoted in a new campaign being launched across Norfolk and Waveney.

The colourful ‘Home First’ campaign uses bright images, animation and positive messages to explain why patients and their families or carers should make sure they can leave hospital on their Expected Discharge Date (EDD), rather than spending a prolonged spell in a hospital bed.

Cath Byford, Chief Nurse of the NHS Clinical Commissioning Groups for Norfolk and Waveney, said:

“We know most patients will recover faster and better in their own home, where they are in a familiar environment and can get back into their normal daily routines. We also know patients would rather be in their own bed than a hospital bed. This campaign aims to make them aware of what they, their family or carers can do to avoid unnecessary delays when they are ready to return home.”

The ‘Home First’ campaign has been developed by the Norfolk and Waveney Health and Care Partnership which includes the area’s five NHS clinical commissioning groups (CCGs), hospitals and Norfolk County Council.

Rt Hon Patricia Hewitt, who Chairs the partnership, said:

“We involved NHS and social care staff, patients, carers and members of the voluntary sector to help design the campaign, and it became clear they wanted it to be positive and upbeat, promoting the benefits for patients of leaving hospital on time and recovering at home. It has been a great example of partnership working involving a broad range of stakeholders to deliver a public campaign.”

The campaign includes the use of animation across digital channels including social media and screens in NHS waiting rooms.