The Bushey and Oxhey CARE scheme began in 1969. It was formed to fill the gap between the Statutory Services and Voluntary Organisations which existed at that time. It is still doing so today.
The main areas in which CARE works are in caring for the elderly and housebound by providing transport to and from medical appointments and by assisting people in essential activities like shopping, collecting prescriptions and pensions, etc. There are about 50 volunteers who give freely of their time. No charge is made for transport, but donations are welcome and can be given to the driver or sent to the Treasurer.
The scheme is administered by a Committee of representatives from the local Churches. The Synagogue is also represented. The main positions are Chairman, Secretary, Treasurer and Duty Officer Co Ordinator.
The scheme is financially supported by the local Churches and from time to time by the authorities responsible for Watford, Hertsmere and Three Rivers. Individual donations are also received.
About 800 calls requesting help are received each year and the vast number of these are carried out.
The procedure for obtaining help is:
1 Clients phone CARE number which is 0208 950 3330. This connects to the Duty Officer of the day.
2 The Duty Officer takes down details of the service being requested.
3 The Duty Officer will find, if at all possible, a volunteer to meet the need from our register of volunteers.
4 The Duty Officer will phone the client back to let them know the name of the person dealing with their request and arrangements, such as time, etc.
5 All the relevant information is recorded in a Log Book by the Duty Officer for future reference.
A few days’ notice is needed in order that the Organisation can run smoothly, as we do not have volunteers on immediate standby.
THIS HELPS US TO HELP YOU
VOLUNTEERS
In order to meet all requests received, we are always in need of more volunteers to replace those who leave us for various reasons.
HELPERS ARE NEEDED FOR
• Transport – daytime only
• Shopping/pension collection and other similar light tasks
• Duty Officers – This activity is done from your own home.
WE DO NOT
• Replace the Statutory Services
• Provide Funds
• Provide Nursing Care or expert help
• Take on tasks that are beyond our capabilities or the intentions of the Organisation.
OUR AIM
Is to provide a friendly, helpful organisation to those in need in Bushey and Oxhey
CARE volunteers are not paid but are able to claim out-of-pocket expenses, such as,
telephone calls and mileage allowance.
CAN YOU HELP?
For further information, please contact the Parish Office.
HELP THE CARE SCHEME TO CARE FOR YOU AND THROUGH YOU.