New joined-up intermediate care service for residents in Medway
HCRG care worker with patient
Residents across Medway are set to benefit from a new health and care service from October 2026.
Medway Council has appointed HCRG Care Group to provide an Intermediate Care and Reablement Service (ICRS) for people who need support to achieve an earlier discharge from hospital, or who are at risk of being admitted, following a competitive procurement process.
Intermediate care services play a vital role in helping people recover and avoid unnecessary hospital stays. The new service will support people in the early stages of recovery from illness, helping them regain confidence, rebuild daily living skills and return home safely.
The service is currently delivered by Medway Community Healthcare (MCH), and plans are in place to ensure a smooth transition so that people continue to receive the care and support they need.
HCRG Care Group is already working in partnership with local NHS organisations across Kent and Medway to improve community healthcare services, helping ensure people can access the right care closer to home.
Debbie Lindon-Taylor, Managing Director of Adult Community Health Services – North Kent, at HCRG Care Group, said: “We are delighted to have been chosen to deliver this important service for Medway.
“Our focus will be on joining up teams across health and care, building strong relationships with local communities and partners, and ensuring people receive the support they need, when they need it. We look forward to working with Medway Council and welcoming new colleagues into HCRG Care Group.”
HCRG Care Group will focus on making it easier for people to get the support they need through developments such as:
A single, joined-up service covering both home and bedded reablement
Closer working with voluntary and community organisations
Improved coordination through care transfer hubs
Expanded specialist support, including for people with more complex needs
Better use of data and digital systems to improve care
Working closely with transferring colleagues, recognising their expertise and local knowledge to ensure continuity of care and help shape the future service
Local people currently using the service won’t see any immediate changes, and care will continue to be delivered by the same trusted health and care professionals during the transition period.
For more information visit www.hcrgcaregroup.com