Onward Care Team

What Does a Complex Discharge Mean?

Most patients leave hospital without needing extra care (this is called a "simple discharge"). However, some patients need more support when leaving hospital.

A complex discharge happens when:

• You need extra care at home (e.g., help with washing, dressing, or medication)
• You need further treatment in a care setting like a community hospital, care home, or specialist centre

If this applies to you, we’re here to help.

What Does the Onward Care Team (OCT) Do?

We’re here to make sure patients with complex needs leave the hospital safely and on time. Our aim is to:

• Support patients, families, and hospital staff during the discharge process.
• Help free up hospital beds for people needing urgent care or planned procedures.
• Wherever possible, help patients return to their home or usual place of residence.

If challenges arise during discharge planning, we’ll work with all the relevant teams to resolve them quickly.

How Do We Help?

The Onward Care Team works closely with hospital and community services to make sure you get the right care, support and equipment when leaving hospital. Our team includes Health Care Professionals and Patient Flow Coordinators.

Here’s how we support you:

• Keeping you informed: We’ll update you regularly on your discharge progress.
• Coordinating care: We work with hospital teams and outside organisations to arrange the support you need.
• Exploring options: If returning home isn’t possible, we’ll help you understand and access other care options.

Our priority is to make the process as smooth and quick as possible while ensuring your safety and comfort.

The core working hours of the team are Monday to Friday 8-4pm

Reduced weekend service and bank holidays 8-4pm (no service provision on Christmas Day)

Contact the OCT:

• At Gloucestershire Royal Hospital (GRH) 0300 422 6311
• At Cheltenham General Hospital (CGH) 0300 422 2152