Hyndburn Borough Council Launches Innovative Pilot Project to Prevent Falls and Reduce Hospital Admissions
Hyndburn Borough Council Launches Innovative Pilot Project to Prevent Falls and Reduce Hospital Admissions
Hyndburn Borough Council is delighted to announce the launch of a groundbreaking pilot project aimed at preventing falls and reducing hospital admissions among vulnerable residents.
This initiative, in partnership with the National Health Service (Lancashire and South Cumbria Integrated Care Board), Lancashire County Council, Peel House Medical Practice and Homewise Society will allocate up to £250,000 from the Disabled Facilities Grant (Better Care Funding) programme.
The funding is subject to formal approval by Lancashire County Council, which is expected imminently.
The project focuses on early aid and adaptation interventions to enhance the safety and well-being of residents, particularly those at risk of falls. By installing appropriate aids and adaptations in homes, the scheme aims to significantly reduce the health burden and associated costs. The funding will be administered by Homewise Society, who will oversee the installation of these essential aids and adaptations, ensuring that the project is carried out efficiently and effectively.
Image: Alyson Barnes, Chief Officer at Homewise and Darren Harwood, Repairs Technician at Homewise
Councillor Melissa Fisher, Portfolio Holder for Housing and Regeneration, said:
“This pilot project represents a significant step forward in our efforts to support vulnerable residents and improve their quality of life. By working together with our partners, we can make a real difference in preventing falls and reducing hospital admissions. We are committed to ensuring that our residents can live safely and independently in their homes for as long as possible.”
A similar project carried out in Wales between 2010 and 2017 showed that frail elderly residents living in areas of higher social deprivation were more likely to have significant falls resulting in hospital admission and subsequently poorer health outcomes. Data studied suggested that intervening with home adaptations, such as stair rails and grab rails could reduce this risk.
Peel House Medical Practice will identify the potential at risk households after which Homewise will arrange a household inspection, identify, and then install appropriate aids and adaptations to the home.
Alyson Barnes, Chief Executive of Homewise said:
“We are happy to be part of this innovative pilot project and look forward to delivering the scheme in partnership with Hyndburn Borough Council and other stakeholders. Our extensive experience in providing home adaptations and aids has equipped us with the knowledge and expertise to effectively support vulnerable residents. We are confident that this project will make a significant difference in preventing falls and improving the quality of life for many in our community.”