What support is available after leaving hospital?
This page explains the types of care and services available in lewisham - including short-term enablement, long-term home care, equipment, and community health support.
Short-term enablement (up to 6 weeks free)
What is enablement?
Enablement is a short-term service (up to 6 weeks, free of charge) that helps you regain confidence and independence after a hospital stay.
The focus is on helping you do things for yourself again - rather than creating long-term dependence on care.
What support is provided?
- help with daily tasks such as washing, dressing, preparing meals
- encouragement to regain physical and mental confidence
- support from trained enablement workers or therapists
- regular reviews to assess progress and next steps
Who is it for?
- people recovering from illness, injury, or surgery
- people who need temporary help to get back to normal
Home care services (ongoing support at home)
If you need longer-term support after enablement ends or you're not eligible for it, home care can be arranged through Lewisham Adult Social Care.
What can home carers help with?
- personal care (washing, dressing, toileting)
- meal preparation and eating
- support medication reminders or administration
- household tasks (laundry, cleaning, shopping)
- emotional support and companionship
How to access home care
- a care needs assessment will be arranged
- you may also need a financial assessment to see if you qualify for help with costs
Equipment and home adaptations
If you have mobility issues or other physical challenges, the right equipment can help you live safely and comfortably at home.
What equipment may be available?
- grab rails, stairlifts, walking frames
- raised toilet seats, bath seats, or shower chairs
- hospital beds or pressure mattresses
- hoists or transfer aids
How to access it
- an occupational therapist may assess your needs at hospital or at home
- small equipment is often provided free of charge
- larger adaptations may require a disabled facilities grant
Community health services (medical care at home)
If you need clinical care after discharge, NHS community health teams may support you at home.
Available services include
- district nursing - wound care, injections, catheter management
- physiotherapy or occupational therapy - to support mobility and recovery
- medication support - including pharmacy delivery in some cases
- continence and stoma care - for people with specific medical needs
Accessing these services
- your hospital discharge team or GP can make referrals
- some services may start immediately after you return home
Help with meals and daily living
If you’re unable to shop or cook for yourself, there are several options:
- meals on wheels - hot, nutritious meals delivered to your door
- shopping assistance - online grocery services or volunteer support
- community groups - some charities offer informal help with meals or errands Meal support may also be arranged as part of a home care package
Financial help and benefits
Will I have to pay for care?
- enablement is free for up to 6 weeks
- ongoing care may require a contribution, depending on your financial situation
- a financial assessment will determine whether you qualify for funding
Benefits you may be eligible for
- attendance allowance (aged 65+ with care needs)
- personal independence payment (PIP) (under 65 with disabilities)
- carer’s allowance (for unpaid family carers)
What if you need more support?
If home support isn’t enough, other care options may include:
- sheltered housing - for people who want to live independently with a little support
- extra care housing - independent flats with on-site care available
- care homes and nursing homes - for people who need full-time care
Need more information?
Contact Lewisham Adult Social Care for advice, assessments, and referrals, on 020 8314 7777 or email gateway@lewisham.gov.uk.