We are very pleased to have opened a brand new Discharge Lounge at Darent Valley Hospital.

Based on Level 1 next to the Wellspring Restaurant, the new Discharge Lounge is a comfortable space that accommodates patients as they await transport home. There is ample seating and there are multiple beds to support our bed bound patients.

Speaking about the new and improved area, Senior Sister, Liz Keeling said: "The new Discharge Lounge is now within the main body of the hospital, avoiding the need to be transferred through an open-air corridor. It provides patients with a welcoming stop before their journey home from the hospital. We are able to accommodate independent and bed bound patients in a brand new bright and airy ward. The team are able to accept early discharges to promote patient flow through the hospital and have snacks and meals on hand to offer as required. We are all very proud of our new area and the comfort it will bring to the patients."

Well done to everyone involved in the development and daily running of this department.