South Yorkshire care home reports drop in ambulance calls and falls after efforts aimed at increasing resident fluid intake
A South Yorkshire care home has reported a reduction in ambulance callouts and falls after introducing a structured hydration programme.
Byron Lodge Care Home in Wath upon Dearne, part of We Care Group, recorded a 45 per cent reduction in ambulance callouts (down to 13 from 24), and a 62 per cent drop in falls requiring ambulance attendance (six from 16) between January and February 2026, based on internal Yorkshire Ambulance Service and discharge data.
The initiative, introduced in February 2025 and developed over the past year, centres on a dedicated ‘hydration station’, combined with monitoring, staff training and engagement activities aimed at increasing fluid intake among residents, the home said in a statement.
It added that the hydration station provides a 'visible, accessible focal point' where people are encouraged to drink regularly throughout the day, featuring a range of flavoured water, fruit-infused drinks and soft refreshments, alongside interactive elements such as themed drinks events and mocktail sessions designed to increase engagement.
Staff also use the station as part of daily routines to prompt and monitor intake, helping to identify early signs of dehydration and tailor support to individual needs, the home said.
It added that it had also achieved its lowest level of ambulance transfers in over 12 months, alongside fewer hospital admissions during a heat episode in May 2026.
The results come as providers face heightened operational pressures linked to extreme temperatures. The Met Office issued red and amber warnings for parts of England this week, with the hottest ever June day recorded on Thursday, with a temperature of 36.7 recorded in Somerset, creating warnings of ‘severe and significant impacts’ on health and services.
UKHSA data showed that 1,504 heat‑associated deaths were recorded in England during the summer last year, with the highest mortality rates among those aged 75 and over.
National guidance for care operators highlights dehydration as a key risk factor during hot weather, linking it to heat exhaustion, hospitalisation and increased risk of cardiovascular and respiratory complications. Providers are advised to ensure residents drink regularly, monitor hydration status and adapt care plans during periods of high heat.
Byron Lodge home manager Maxine Gascoigne said: “Keeping our residents hydrated is vital for their overall health and wellbeing in the summer months, particularly as we head into another heatwave.
“Dehydration can be extremely dangerous in the elderly and vulnerable, so we’re delighted residents have been getting involved and engaging with our Hydration Station.
She added the home had also recently received a Gold Hydration Certificate by the NHS and Careskills following the initiative.
