Watford has a few support options for carers, including emergency planning, dementia-related support groups, and local help lines. There’s also wider advice available through benefits, housing, and mental wellbeing services if caring is affecting day-to-day life.
| Support available | What it offers | How to access |
|---|---|---|
| “In case of emergency” plan | Lets carers record emergency contacts, medication details, communication needs, and whether the person cared for can stay safely at home alone. Once received by Hertfordshire County Council, carers get an “I am a Carer” card and key fob with a 24-hour hotline. | Complete the online form or call 0300 1234 042 |
| Memory Café and Carers Retreat | A supportive drop-in session for people living with dementia, their carers and companions, with opportunities to connect with others and access resources. | Held at Cheslyn House and Gardens; first session was Wednesday 21 June, then the last Wednesday of each month from 10:30am–12:30pm |
| Bushey Baptist Church Carers Club | A free friendly place for carers of people living with dementia to come together for help, support and information. | First and third Tuesday of every month, 10:30am–12:30pm; contact Ron Payne on 07724008320 |
| Carer-related benefits support | Benefits information includes Carer’s Allowance, plus other support such as income-related benefits, housing support, Council Tax Reduction and Universal Credit. | Use the benefits information pages and online benefits calculators |
| Mental health support | If you’re already receiving support, you can contact your care co-ordinator, or use the out-of-hours helpline for evening, weekend or bank holiday help. | 0800 6444 101 or 01438 843322 |
| Bereavement support | Help is available from organisations such as Cruse Bereavement Care, The Good Grief Trust, Survivors of Bereavement, Sands, and Peace Hospice HCC. | Contact details are listed on the bereavement support page |
If you’re looking for practical help as a carer, the emergency plan is the most direct option. For ongoing support, the dementia-friendly groups and benefits advice look like the main local routes.