- Date: 27/09/2021
Harpreet*, who lives in Erewash, had been independent for most of her life.
Due to a back problem, her mobility and confidence had deteriorated and a couple of weeks ago she had a fall. Without any family or friends nearby Harpreet called our Falls Recovery Team through her pendant alarm.
When we arrived we found Harpreet laying sideways against a radiator, in a space that our raizer chair equipment couldn’t fit. We quickly turned off the radiator to prevent any burns and explained to Harpreet that we could need to call an ambulance as she was in so much pain and couldn’t use our raizer chair to get back up.
Harpreet was really anxious about going into hospital but the team were able to comfort her and stayed with her until the ambulance arrived. Due to high demand this was five hours.
“Without the Falls Recovery Team, Harpreet would’ve been alone, frightened and in a great deal of pain for hours” says Team Leader Emily. “Usually our raizer chair saves the day, but in this case it was the support and kindness of the support worker which meant Harpreet didn’t have to be alone.”
Once the ambulance arrived Harpreet was safely helped onto a stretcher and taken into hospital to check she hadn’t any major injuries.
“Our support didn’t end there” explains Emily. “When a customer goes into hospital we make sure their home adapts and changes to fit any new needs. In Harpreet’s case the team made a referral to her GP surgery so we could support her after being discharged from hospital. We also made a referral for a care package assessment and home adaptations like a walking aid.
“We’re happy to say Harpreet is now safe and well at home. She is receiving a care package and believes she now has a ‘better quality of life’”
*name changed