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All Care in Bedford

Bedford: A Historic Market Town in Bedfordshire

Introduction

Bedford is a historic market town and the county town of Bedfordshire, located 50 miles north of London. With a population of 106,940 (2021 census), Bedford offers a mix of heritage and modern community services, including comprehensive care provisions for elderly and vulnerable residents.

Key Location Facts

  • Position:
    • 50 miles north of London
    • 20 miles west of Cambridge
    • On the River Great Ouse
  • Transport Links:
    • Bedford railway station (Thameslink and East Midlands Railway)
    • A421 and A6 road connections
    • London Luton Airport (25 miles south)

Care Services in Bedford

Bedford provides a full spectrum of care options:

Residential Care Homes

  • 35+ registered care homes
  • Specializing in elderly care and dementia care
  • Notable facilities include:
    • Priory Court Care Home
    • The Elms Residential Home
    • Bedford Care Homes Group

Home Care Services

  • Domiciliary care providers
  • Personal care and companionship
  • Meal preparation and medication support

Supported Living

  • For adults with learning disabilities
  • Independent living with support
  • Council-backed schemes available

Specialist Care

  • Dementia care units
  • Disability care services
  • Respite care options

Historical Significance

  • Founded at a ford on the River Great Ouse
  • Birthplace of John Bunyan (1628-1688), author of Pilgrim's Progress
  • Important lace-making centre in 19th century
  • Site of significant WWII operations

Modern Bedford

Education Hub

  • University of Bedfordshire campus
  • Bedford School (founded 1552)
  • Modern apprenticeship schemes

Economic Profile

  • Key employers:
    • Bedfordshire Hospitals NHS Trust
    • TK Maxx distribution center
    • Bosch UK headquarters
  • Growing tech sector

Community Features

  • Excellent parks including Bedford Park
  • The Higgins Bedford museum and art gallery
  • Annual River Festival (second largest in UK)
  • Diverse cultural communities

Housing and Demographics

  • Population: 106,940 (2021)
  • Age profile:
    • 19% aged 65+ (requiring elderly care services)
    • 25% under 19
  • Housing mix:
    • Victorian terraces
    • Modern developments
    • Accessible housing schemes

Why Choose Bedford?

  • Comprehensive care sector with:
    • Quality care homes
    • Responsive home care
    • Innovative supported living
    • Specialist dementia care
  • Excellent transport links
  • Rich cultural heritage
  • Strong sense of community
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