Supporting Independence Through the Community Home First Project

The Community Home First Project is a shining example of what can be achieved when organisations come together with one shared goal: supporting people to regain independence and reduce the risk of hospital readmission after a fall.

Funded by Cheshire Action and delivered in partnership with Age UK Cheshire, Cheshire and Warrington Carers Trust, Snow Angels, and Healthbox CIC, this collaborative project has been making a real difference across the region.

Falls are one of the most common reasons for hospital admissions, particularly among older adults. The impact goes beyond physical injury, often knocking people’s confidence and limiting independence. The Community Home First Project exists to change that story, ensuring that once someone is discharged from hospital, they get the support they need to thrive at home.

Healthbox’s role: Strength and balance at home

At Healthbox CIC, our part in this project is delivered by our skilled team of physical activity instructors. Between June 2024 and June 2025, we carried out 426 home visits in Cheshire, providing one-to-one exercise rehabilitation tailored to each individual.

These home-based exercise sessions focus on strength and balance, helping people rebuild mobility, reduce the risk of further falls, and move around their homes with better confidence. For many, this means being able to get outdoors again, whether to visit friends, enjoy a walk, or simply return to activities they love.

In addition to home visits, we have also been trialling hospital-based exercise sessions at The Countess of Chester Hospital. By introducing gentle strength and balance activities before patients leave hospital, we can help prepare them for their transition home, giving them the best possible start to their recovery journey.

To keep people motivated between visits, we’ve even designed exercise tea towels. Printed with simple strength and balance routines, these are a fun and practical way to remind people to practise in their own time, turning everyday moments at home into opportunities to stay active.

Why the Community Home first Project Matters

By offering personalised support in the comfort of someone’s own home, the project not only reduces the chance of hospital readmission but also restores independence, dignity, and wellbeing. Every partner plays a vital role: whether it’s practical support, emotional care for families, or ongoing community connections, the collaboration ensures people have the tools and encouragement they need to thrive.

As the Community Home First Project continues, it shows the power of partnership in creating healthier, happier communities. Behind every home visit is a story of resilience, of someone finding their confidence again, taking steady steps toward independence, and rediscovering the joy of daily life. Together, we are helping people not only recover from a fall but also embrace the future with strength, balance, and hope.