Visiting Patients and Families/Supporters In Hospital

Experiencing an injury to the brain can be incredibly bewildering and frightening for both the individual and their support network.

Our team visit patients and their supporters at Yeovil District Hospital, Musgrove Park Hospital in Taunton and SNRC at Dene Barton, Cotford St Luke to  help them through this difficult time. 

People value the specialist information, practical and emotional support our team offer and knowing that someone cares about the position they find themselves in. Our aim is that no one has to cope alone. 

How We Help

  • We provide easy to understand information, as well as easy to read guides about acquired brain injury
  • We can explain to your wider network what has happened if you would like this
  • We advise about statutory and community organisations who may be able to help you
  • We listen when you want to talk about your fears, concerns and experiences
  • We encourage your involvement in the discharge process
  • We explain what to expect over the first weeks and months of recovery
  • We can keep in regular contact with you after leaving hospital for up to 12 weeks 
  • We can guide you to access other services to support your continued recovery

Information about the Hospital Liaison Service can be found on the main wards of the hospital.

Patients, their support networks and ward staff can ask us to visit them and we will be happy to help.


Headway Plymouth’s Hospital Liaison Project is a dedicated service designed to support individuals with acquired brain injuries (ABI) and their families during hospital stays and throughout the critical transition from hospital to home. The project operates primarily at Derriford and Mount Gould Hospitals in Plymouth, providing a vital link between hospital care and community-based rehabilitation and support.


Key Objectives


• Emotional and Practical Support: The liaison team offers emotional reassurance and practical advice to patients and their families, helping them navigate the complexities of brain injury recovery and hospital discharge.


• Information and Advocacy: The service provides clear information about brain injury, available resources, and patients’ rights. It also advocates for patients’ needs within the hospital setting, ensuring their voices are heard by medical staff.


• Continuity of Care: By bridging the gap between hospital and community services, the project ensures that patients do not feel abandoned after discharge. The team coordinates with social workers, therapists, and community rehabilitation services to create a seamless support network.


How the Service Works


• In-Hospital Presence: The liaison team is available on main hospital wards, where they can be approached by patients, families, or ward staff for support and guidance.
• Discharge Planning: The team assists with discharge planning, helping to reduce anxiety and uncertainty for patients and families. They provide advice on what to expect after leaving hospital and how to access further support in the community.
• Follow-Up: Support continues after discharge, with the team offering ongoing advice and signposting to Headway Plymouth’s wider services, including day centre activities, home visits, and peer support groups.
Impact


The Hospital Liaison Project has been recognised for improving psychological wellbeing, reducing patient anxiety, and facilitating smoother transitions from hospital to home. It plays a crucial role in preventing gaps in care, reducing hospital readmissions, and empowering brain injury survivors and their families to rebuild their lives with confidence.


Contact
For more information, patients and families can contact Headway Plymouth directly or ask hospital staff for a referral to the liaison team