This month marks a significant milestone for both our RD&E (Wonford) discharge lounge and the discharge hub at NDDH. Our discharge lounge has now been open for five years, and we’ve seen some amazing results for patients during that time.

Our discharge facilities provide a comfortable space for patients who no longer need to be on a ward and are waiting to go home, where they can finalise their discharge, including collecting medications, checking discharge paperwork and contacting next of kin, all supported by our nursing teams.

What began as a three-month test of change has grown into the most successful model established in Eastern services. Since opening in August 2021, 46,122 patients have passed through the RD&E discharge lounge on their way to recovery at home. The team is now setting its sights on the next milestone - reaching 50,000 patients by the end of the year.

Louise Walton, clinical nurse manager, said “Getting to this point has involved an incredible amount of hard work and commitment from teams right across the Trust.

“By supporting timely and safe discharges, the lounge has helped improve patient flow, strengthens operational resilience, and supports timely care across our services. It’s become a trusted and valued part of the patient pathway.”

In Northern services, teams are also marking a major achievement with three years of the discharge hub being open to patients at NDDH. In that time there have been a total of 21,713 patients through its doors, saving 4,338 bed days. The hub has also seen a 26.7% increase in volume since its first year of operation in 2023.

Tracey Squire, clinical nurse manager, discharge hub said “As patient numbers rise, this teamwork will be vital in further improving patient flow, reducing bottlenecks, and ensuring a smoother overall healthcare journey."

Behind these figures are thousands of successful discharges, making more beds available for those who need them the most. Reducing pressure on our wards and admission areas and a more comfortable discharge for patients leaving hospital.

Read more about our discharge facilities on our website.