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Hertfordshire County Council

 

Your connected life (logo)

Ways to get started

Keeping on top of things
Keeping healthy

 

 

Keeping active
Keeping in touch

 

 

 

There are all sorts of ways to help you stay happy, safe and well in your own home. With the right connections in place, it’s much easier to live life to the full.

Your Connected Life is all about building a network around you. This can be anything that makes your life easier and more enjoyable.

 

 

Our short video explains how Your Connected Life can help you.

 


Keeping on top of things

 


Managing your money

You or your carer may be eligible for support, discounts or certain benefits which could help with paying bills.

Use our trusted Money advice tool to help you find out what benefits you might be eligible for.

Cost of living help

Find sources of advice and practical help with energy costs, managing finances and making savings 


Planning ahead

It’s a good idea to get advice to help you plan for the future. This includes:

Making a Will

Make sure your money, property and possessions are passed on to the people you care about, by making a will.

Power of Attorney

Set up arrangements for someone else to act on your behalf if you become ill or unable to make decisions.

Have a Carer’s In Case of Emergency plan

Get your Carer's In Case of Emergency plan in place if you care for someone who couldn’t manage without your help.


Getting extra support

Try asking friends or neighbours, as people often want to help out. If you need a bit more support, local
services and charities can give you a hand with things you find difficult.

Find out where to go for advice. 

 


Keeping healthy

 


Keep medical appointments and check you’re taking medication correctly

Make sure to order your medication in plenty of time – many pharmacies will deliver to your home.


Get a flu and covid jab

This year, it’s especially important to get your free covid vaccine, and flu jab if you’re eligible.
Speak to your doctor, local pharmacy or call 111.


Looking after your Wellbeing

If you're finding things hard emotionally right now, you're not alone.  There are practical tips and advice on Coronavirus and your wellbeing from MIND

 

Looking after your health

  • Have regular health check-ups, dental and eye tests
  • Stay warm - keep your home warm and comfortable (you could be entitled to support or discounted home energy improvements)
  • NHS Your health at home

Healthy Hubs offer information, advice and support to help you stay healthy and well.

You could visit the NHS Live well website for useful tips.

Help with your health if you have a learning disability

Eating well

Move more

  • Move around your home and try to get outdoors as much as possible
  • Try an online exercise class
  • Stay active at home – NHS online exercises

Wellbeing courses

Take control of your wellbeing with a free course, online or face to face with New Leaf

Avoiding a fall

There are things you can do to avoid a fall and make your home more safe at AgeUK avoiding a fall or you can call 0800 678 1602.

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Keeping active

Having a pet can help you to be more active and can be a great comfort.

Do you know anyone that could lend a hand or take your dog for a walk if you’re unable to? Many businesses and organisations can help, such as pet charities and voluntary organisations, or professional pet sitters and groomers.

The Cinnamon Trust is a national charity that provides practical help for pet owners facing difficulties with any aspect of day-to-day care. Visit the Cinnamon Trust website or Call 01736 757900.

You could also connect to a local volunteer dog walker or pet sitter through Communities 1st online form, email help@communities1st.org.uk or call 020 8207 5115.


Keeping in touch

 



Talk to friends and family about different ways to stay in touch, like WhatsApp groups and video calls. The internet is useful for all sorts of things from shopping to booking appointments, so ask for help to get online if you’re unsure how.

Try Learn my way for easy to follow step by step guides to get online safely.







Join a hobby or interest group to do the things you enjoy and meet new people. At the moment these might be running differently to keep you safe.

You may be able to offer your skills by volunteering to support others, even from home.



Find a new activity or group with help from HertsHelp.
Call: 0300 123 4044

Explore our directory of activities, hobbies and leisure.

 


Where to go for advice

 

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