All Care in Fenland

Fenland: A Practical Guide to Care Services in Cambridgeshire's Rural District

Overview

Fenland is a predominantly rural district in Cambridgeshire, England, known for its flat agricultural landscapes and market towns like Wisbech, March, and Chatteris. With an ageing population, the area has developed strong elderly care, disability care, and supported living services.

Key Statistics

• Population: Approximately 102,000 (2023 estimate)
• Notable Towns: Wisbech, March, Whittlesey, Chatteris
• Care Sector: Over 40 registered care homes and home care providers

Care Services Overview

Residential Care Options

1. Care Homes:

   • 25+ facilities offering dementia care and general elderly care
   • Examples:
     • The Gables (March) - Specialist dementia care
     • Park House (Wisbech) - Residential & nursing care

2. Supported Living:

   • 15+ schemes for adults with disabilities or mental health needs
   • Key providers:
     • Fenland Supported Living Network
     • Cambridgeshire County Council partnerships

Home Care Services

• Domiciliary Care: 20+ agencies providing:
  • Personal care
  • Meal preparation
  • Medication management
• Specialist Care:
  • Post-stroke rehabilitation
  • Parkinson’s disease support

Local Infrastructure

Healthcare Facilities

• Hospitals:
  • North Cambs Hospital (Wisbech) - Minor injuries unit
  • Peterborough City Hospital - Nearest full-service facility
• Clinics: Multiple GP practices with elderly care specialists

Transport Links

• Roads: A47 and A141 for regional access
• Public Transport: Limited rural bus services (demand-responsive options available)

Funding & Support

• Council Partnerships: Cambridgeshire County Council funds supported living schemes
• Charities: Age UK Fenland, Alzheimer’s Society local branches

Challenges & Opportunities

• Workforce Shortages: Recruitment of skilled home care staff
• Rural Access: Mobile care teams cover remote villages
• Development: New care home projects planned for Whittlesey and Chatteris