In many areas, voluntary sector providers have begun to forge ways to deliver efficient, high‐quality, patient‐centred care. Partnerships between the NHS and the voluntary sector help to facilitate a smooth transition from hospital to the community by providing ongoing support for patients in their own homes (Rivers [45]). When planning discharge for a patient who is elderly or has special needs, it is worth exploring what voluntary services are available locally that could provide support to enable timely discharge and help to prevent a hospital readmission. Examples of services provided by the voluntary sector are shown in Box 3.3, but it is important to consider what is available locally. The provision of practical help, either with personal care or with functional tasks around the home, can give the patient confidence that they will be able to cope and can provide ongoing emotional support once the patient is at home.