This project aims to improve and integrate the social and clinical care provided to people nearing the end of their lives. This strategy has allowed more people to die at home and reduced the number of hospital admissions during times of crisis.
REaCH provides an integrated clinical and social care support plan that is person-centered. The plan seeks to protect people's dignity and treat them with respect during a difficult time, ensuring that their wishes are met and that they are at the centre of decision-making. This new combined team can meet the individual's holistic needs and choices, allowing people to die in their preferred location, which for many is their own home.
REaCH provides a personalised, individual package of care to Stockport residents, including: intermediate care; reablement (assisting people to regain independence that may have been reduced or lost due to illness or disability); overnight support; end-of-life care; short-term assessments; crisis support; utilising REaCH's assistant practitioners' skills and working in partnership with social workers, NHS (National Health Service) professionals, and others.
Support may include: Personal care; practical support; well-being visits; clinical support; signposting to community networks and local services; and connecting and introducing people to third-sector services may be provided.
REaCH assists individuals in maintaining their chosen level of independence and quality of life for as long as possible. This is accomplished by collaborating with the GP and community nurses to ensure prompt access to aids and adaptations, medication reordering, and pain relief.
The integrated service is based on the interdisciplinary working principle and an understanding of how different roles can best match the individual's rapidly changing support needs.
Respect for people's wishes and dignity at the end of their lives is emphasised in the programme.
The interdisciplinary team is assembled to meet all of the individual's needs and preferences, with the goal of allowing people to die in their preferred location, typically their own home.