A SERVICE set up by the British Red Cross to help newly discharged hospital patients cope with independent living will be launched in Redditch on April 2.

Home from Hospital is to be co-ordinated at the Alexandra Hospital but the charity is seeking volunteers to help run it.

The scheme is free and offers practical and emotional support to patients leaving hospital.

Its key objective is to ensure people do not remain in hospital longer than they need to once medical requirements have been fulfilled.

Worcestershire Home from Hospital co-ordinator Iris Crittenden said: "Our volunteers are on hand to provide short term support to patients on their return home.

"This can include going shopping, collecting prescriptions or simply calling in during the first few weeks after discharge to ensure the person is able to cope on their own.

"We are looking for volunteers who bring with them kindness and common sense.

"In return they will have the satisfaction of knowing they have helped a client back to independent living in their own home."

A Home from Hospital service have been running in south Worcestershire since 1987and deals with about 600 referrals each year. Its success has led to this service being set up.

Volunteers do not need any special skills because all relevant training will be given and expenses paid.

For more details, call Iris Crittenden on 01905 763935 or 01905 763333 extension 34279.