Rapid Response Service

The Rapid Response Service is designed for people who have an acute illness which can be severe but where recovery often is quite quick, for example a chest infection, a fall, or a urinary tract infection.

The service offers special care and support at home for up to four to six weeks - and in some cases this may be extended. The service is free of charge. The aim of this additional care is to support you in your own home so that you can regain your independence, and help you go home from hospital as soon as is practical. This support is also available if you need help to prevent admission to hospital.

Who is the service for?

You may qualify for this service if:

you can be supported safely at home with all aspects of the care you need, for example if your main carer is admitted to hospital
you have an acute illness and without additional support you would be admitted to hospital
you need extra support to go home after a spell in hospital

Because the Rapid Response Service is only available for a short period, you will not qualify for this type of care if you need ongoing care or are already receiving significant support.

Who provides the service?

By bringing together both Health and Social Work staff to work as a team, the Rapid Response Team can offer a swifter, smoother service. The Team includes a Care Manager, Occupational Therapist, Physiotherapist and a District Nurse who will advise on aspects of care which help you to remain safely and feel more confident in your own home.

Contacting the team

If you would like more information about the service, please call:

Central Borders Rapid Response Team on 01896 826283. The office is open on Mondays to Thursdays from 9.00am - 5.00pm and on Fridays from 9.00am - 3.45pm.
outside office hours or in an emergency call 01896 752111
you can also contact your local Social Work office.