Comment - Caring in the community of Ashtead

With the large long-stay hospitals around Epsom closing, residents are moving into group homes in many places, Ashtead being one. The homes are usually staffed, although we have had one unstaffed home here for ten years. They are managed by a team of staff nurses, care assistants and therapists, who in turn are managed by the NHS, Social Services or private trusts. Each home has to supply a care package that is appropriate for each resident.

Most homes now have effective support groups and good neighbour schemes which help with integration into the community.

The hospitals, however, are still going strong, and require volunteers in various capacities. As chaplain to Surrey Hearlands NHS Trust, I am always on the lookout for helpers at our well attended Sunday morning service at St Ebba's Hospital at Ewell. A small band of helpers gathers each Sunday at 10.30am to prepare refreshments, push wheel-chairs and assist with the service. We welcome any offers of help either with the home or hospitals.

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