Independent living

We have two types of accommodation – independent living and flexicare. The accommodation is similar, but there are some differences which might influence your choice.

In independent living homes, tenants are free to come and go, and to invite friends to visit, just as they would if they lived elsewhere. These flats contain added security and support for your peace of mind – each flat is connected to a Lifeline alarm system which means that in emergencies you can always call for help. 
Independent living is also about your life outside your home, so there are regular social activities and events, a communal lounge and in most schemes we offer laundry facilities and guest rooms, should you wish to use them.  

In a flexicare scheme, you will live in your own flat, but with the added bonus of access to 24-hour on-site care and support (there is a separate cost for any commissioned care). Flexicare enables individuals and couples to rent a flat within a safe community, with housing-related support and care services on site. The services are flexible and can be adapted to suit your changing needs, so that you are always in the best situation for your health and wellbeing.

Flexicare is ideal for those who, due to their environment and physical condition, are finding it gradually more difficult to maintain their home. Flexicare is an alternative way of living which enables you to retain your independence and security for as long as possible. 
 

We have 11 schemes in total across Watford and Abbots Langley, including two flexicare schemes – Dale Court and Rutland Lodge. They are conveniently located, with access to public transport, shops and amenities nearby.

For more information, please get in touch on 0800 2182247 or email enquiries@wcht.org.uk

Flexicare living:
To apply for Flexicare living, you must be over 50 years of age and have personal care needs, including assistance with daily living and housing related support needs. You must also have a sufficiently close connection to the Watford area (e.g. be a resident of Watford when applying, wishing to move to be closer to family, etc).

If you qualify then you can apply to us directly by completing this form and sending it to us at 59 Clarendon Road, Watford, WD17 1LA - or you can email the form to independentliving@wcht.org.uk. We will notify you when we receive your application.

Please note that you will be placed on a waiting list and when suitable accommodation becomes available, we will contact you. When we contact you, we will arrange for you to complete an independent living service needs and risk assessment with the commissioned care provider.

Independent living:
If you would like to apply for an Independent Living property you will need to join Watford Borough Council's Housing Register, you must be living in Watford at the time you apply and have lived in the borough for five out of the last six years.
Applying for social housing - www.Watford.gov.uk

In exceptional cases, we may offer Independent Living and Flexicare accommodation to an applicant directly, where we have a 'hard to let' property available. A 'hard to let' property is regarded as one which has been advertised twice and been unsuccessfully let as per the Local Authorities nomination agreement.

If you have any enquiries about moving to Independent Living, please email Indpendentliving@wcht.org.uk.

Housing for older people
To find more information for housing for older people follow the link below.
Housing for older people – www.watford.gov.uk