As Move 2 Independence (M2I) approaches two years of supporting Somerset residents after hospital stays, the impact is best seen through the people whose confidence and independence have been rebuilt after engaging with our Activators. With more than 500 participants supported and over 1,300 personalised sessions delivered, there are many stories like Eileen's that show how the service helps people get back to living well at home.
At 79, Eileen was referred to M2I after a fall at home left her with a fractured ankle. Living alone, she faced reduced mobility, pain and a significant loss of confidence. Everyday tasks felt overwhelming, and the fear of falling kept her from going outside. Before M2I support began, she described life after discharge as "terrible," struggling even with simple activities such as filling the kettle.
Eileen's goal was to return to running the coffee morning at her local village hall. Through six tailored sessions, her M2I Activator, Karen Abbott of SASP, supported her with chair-based strength exercises, balance work at the kitchen counter, and gradual outdoor walking practice. Sessions focused on rebuilding confidence as much as physical recovery, starting with stepping onto her doorstep and progressing to independent outdoor walks.
Despite ongoing pain and challenging weather, Eileen persevered. By the end of the programme, her confidence when mobilising had increased from 6/10 to 8/10, and her strength improved from two sit-to-stand attempts in 30 seconds to just five. Most importantly, she achieved her goal, restarting the village coffee morning and reconnecting with her community. Her mood improved, she felt less isolated, and she became optimistic about the future again.
Reflecting on the experience, Eileen highlighted the importance of both the practical support and the companionship:
"It's just been so nice, the companionship and helping me to get going."
Eileen's journey is one of many that demonstrate how M2I bridges the gap between hospital discharge and long term independence, helping people regain strength, confidence and enjoyment in everyday life.
If you or someone you know might benefit, speak to a health professional on the hospital ward, a GP surgery Discharge Facilitator, or contact SASP directly for advice. Learn more: www.sasp.co.uk/move2independence