A BRIDGWATER patient has praised Somerset Partnership’s Early Supported Discharge Service for stroke patients, for allowing him to make the recovery from his recent stroke in the comfort of his own home.

The Early Supported Discharge (ESD) Service, piloted for the last two years in Mendip, was rolled out in September to all eligible patients across Somerset. Now the new county-wide service helps suitable stroke and patients with brain-injuries to leave hospital more quickly by providing them with their essential rehabilitation at home.

Since September last year, the new service has helped 139 stroke patients and six patients with brain injuries.

One of those stroke patients, Bryan Darch, was discharged early from Williton Community Hospital after his stroke in August to continue his recovery back home in Bridgwater.

Mr Darch commended the service and said: “I think the Early Supported Discharge Service has made a real difference to my recovery. Being at home is a lot more comfortable, and I think I am getting better much more quickly.

“The physiotherapy provided to me has been really good, and because I am at home I think I am doing the exercises more regularly. I really enjoy being in my own bed at night, and in my own familiar surroundings.

“It’s really nice to be at home to recuperate. Also my wife is a great cook and it is lovely having home cooked food every day. The evenings and nights are peaceful, and I get a good night’s sleep in my own bed.

“I have been able to practice getting in and out of my car with the walker; I couldn’t do that in hospital. I would definitely recommend the service - all of the staff have been very kind and supportive.”