Welcome

Welcome to the Cambridgeshire Guide to Independent Living 2023, produced in partnership with the publisher Care Choices. This Guide introduces the information, care, and support you need to enjoy the best quality of life for as long as possible. It’s packed full of information and is easy to use.

Whatever your age or ability, there are things you can do to remain independent, safe, and well. Many of these are small lifestyle changes that will make a big difference. By acting now, you can make positive changes that can make a big impact in your future. There are many people, places, and activities that can help you to carry on doing what matters to you, without having to pay for professional care.

There’s a lot of excellent support available in Cambridgeshire. This Guide will help you think about the options available and help you to make the choices that are right for you. Use this Guide to have a look through all the help that’s available at your fingertips. You’ll find out about local activities, transport, equipment and adaptations, home support, what you can expect from the council, and much, much more.

Keep your Guide by the phone or somewhere handy,

or even better, start filling in your action plan on page 6.

Tip

To give you some extra help, we’ve given you some handy tips throughout the Guide, so look out for them.

Tip

You might want to use this Guide on your own, or ask a friend, or family member to help you think things through:

• Browse this Guide to identify the five key things that you are interested in or feel will support you.

• Explore the suggestions to find out more about the areas that matter to you.

• Use your action plan on page 6 to help you plan the things you want to put in place and who you will contact first.

The details in this Guide may change over time. If you can go online, you can find the most up-to-date information about living independently in Cambridgeshire at

www.cambridgeshire.gov.uk/adults

Search for care in your area

www.carechoices.co.uk

With so many providers to choose from, where do you start?

• Find care providers quickly and easily • Search by location and care need • Information on care quality • Links to inspection reports • Additional information, photos and web links • Brochure requests