Stockport NHS Foundation Trust has been working with partners in Stockport Homes Group, The Wellspring and Age UK Stockport to support patients who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless over the winter period.
Homelessness can lead to or worsen many health problems, and ill health can be both a cause and consequence of homelessness. The measures taken are an attempt to tackle this.
Stockport Homes Group (SHG) has provided the role of Hospital Homeless Advocate to deliver specialist support on the Stepping Hill Hospital site. They have been providing training sessions for staff to help them with the process referring patients to the support they need.
Patients who have been referred can then receive support from SHG and partner services.
The aim is for consenting patients to receive their referral as soon as possible for the support of their welfare, and improving patient care and outcomes, as well as helping patient flow in the busy hospital.
For those who are still experiencing homelessness, staff can also provide with supplies, including hats, gloves, flasks, backpacks, toothbrushes, toothpaste, sanitary items and food.