Cambridge Neighbourhood Support has recently taken proactive steps to support some of our most valued community members, residents of retirement villages and rest homes, by helping refresh and strengthen their emergency planning.

A recent visit to a prominent retirement village sparked a meaningful discussion around updating emergency procedures and ensuring residents and staff are well-prepared for unexpected events. The session was constructive and sparked many ideas to be further considered. Participants expressed appreciation for the opportunity to revisit their plans.

Prior to this, our team has facilitated emergency planning workshops at two other rest homes in the area. These sessions focused on practical preparedness, communication strategies, and how to respond effectively during emergencies such as natural disasters or power outages. The workshops also encouraged staff and residents to think about how they can support one another and stay connected during times of crisis.

Importantly, many people may not realize that one of our key partners in this work is Civil Defence. Their expertise and resources play a vital role in helping communities prepare for emergencies, and their collaboration ensures that the advice and planning we share is aligned with national best practices.

These workshops are part of a broader effort to build resilience across all parts of our community. By engaging with retirement villages and rest homes, we’re helping ensure that older residents, who may be more vulnerable during emergencies, are not only informed but empowered.

We encourage all community members to take emergency planning seriously, talk with neighbours, and reach out if they’d like support in reviewing their own plans.

Together, we can build a safer, more connected Cambridge.