In 2016, the Falls Prevention team took part in a multi-stakeholder process around early identification and prevention of falls. Engaging with a number of stakeholders, including Calderdale CCG, the Fire and Rescue Service, Calderdale Council, Age UK and Community Transport

They promote the use of a simple, 5 question, falls risk tool by all stakeholders, to identify those at risk, and to refer on to the Support and Independence Team for a falls risk assessment, and appropriate preventative intervention, or to signpost to other activities or services.

Clinical Lead Physiotherapist, Claire Folan said “falls can have a big impact on independence, confidence and function. Treating injuries from falls costs the NHS billions of pounds each year. Evidence suggests that providing a multi-factorial risk assessment and strength and balance exercises in a timely manner can reduce the risk of falls, and keep individuals safe and independent for longer, and out of hospital. “

An opportunity was identified to enhance the home hazard risk assessment already undertaken by the Fire and Rescue Service, and create a more holistic Safe and Well check which would also include other elements of health and social work.

They linked with the Staying Well Team to deliver training to the Fire and Rescue Team in Todmorden, and the team started completing the assessment. The form and training is gradually being introduced across all Fire and Rescue Teams in Calderdale. 61 assessments have now been completed by them, and referrals have started to come through to the Falls Prevention Team.

Claire added “The Falls Prevention Team has embraced the new Safe and Well check and have received over 10 referrals from the Fire and Rescue Service.  Some of the individuals referred were appropriate for our early falls prevention exercise class “Finding Your Feet” (pictured).  Other individuals were seen for a one-off falls risk assessment and advice, and some were already known to our service, and reviewed by telephone.”

“It is great news that services external to health care are recognising the importance of preventing falls, and aiming to keep the residents of Calderdale healthy and independent for longer.”

In 2016, the Falls Prevention team took part in a multi-stakeholder process around early identification and prevention of falls. Engaging with a number of stakeholders, including Calderdale CCG, the Fire and Rescue Service, Calderdale Council, Age UK and Community Transport

They promote the use of a simple, 5 question, falls risk tool by all stakeholders, to identify those at risk, and to refer on to the Support and Independence Team for a falls risk assessment, and appropriate preventative intervention, or to signpost to other activities or services.

Clinical Lead Physiotherapist, Claire Folan said “falls can have a big impact on independence, confidence and function. Treating injuries from falls costs the NHS billions of pounds each year. Evidence suggests that providing a multi-factorial risk assessment and strength and balance exercises in a timely manner can reduce the risk of falls, and keep individuals safe and independent for longer, and out of hospital. “

An opportunity was identified to enhance the home hazard risk assessment already undertaken by the Fire and Rescue Service, and create a more holistic Safe and Well check which would also include other elements of health and social work.

They linked with the Staying Well Team to deliver training to the Fire and Rescue Team in Todmorden, and the team started completing the assessment. The form and training is gradually being introduced across all Fire and Rescue Teams in Calderdale. 61 assessments have now been completed by them, and referrals have started to come through to the Falls Prevention Team.

Claire added “The Falls Prevention Team has embraced the new Safe and Well check and have received over 10 referrals from the Fire and Rescue Service.  Some of the individuals referred were appropriate for our early falls prevention exercise class “Finding Your Feet” (pictured).  Other individuals were seen for a one-off falls risk assessment and advice, and some were already known to our service, and reviewed by telephone.”

“It is great news that services external to health care are recognising the importance of preventing falls, and aiming to keep the residents of Calderdale healthy and independent for longer.”