Warwickshire News Mine

Whether it’s a light bulb that needs fitting, a leaky tap or a door that needs re-hanging, Warwickshire County Council wants to ensure that help is at hand for even more older and disabled people.

This subsidised service will provide small building repairs, minor adaptations and odd jobs. An important part of the service will be the offer of a risk assessment in the home while the handyperson is there. This means the handyperson’s service can offer remedial action to prevent risks around the home - for example, securing loose carpets, putting up grab rails or installing smoke alarms. There may be a cost for some of the services or materials provided.

Dr Graeme Betts, Strategic Director of Adult, Health and Community Services at Warwickshire County Council, said: “This is a welcome financial boost for a valuable service, which will help older people and adults with disabilities to live more independently and comfortably.

“Most older people want to stay in their own homes but some may need a helping hand from time to time to ensure everything is in order. I am delighted that even more people will benefit from this practical support.”

The Department of Communities and Local Government has also awarded Warwickshire with an additional £192,000 for a new ‘housing options service’ pilot scheme for all older people across Warwickshire. The enhanced service is aimed at older people about the choices available to them when it comes to where they live.  This includes people who may be vulnerable in their own homes, for instance at risk of falls or awaiting hospital discharge. The service helps older people assess their housing needs, whether they want to remain living in their existing home or if they wish to move and need practical support to do so. 

Lord McKenzie, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State launched the pilot schemes nationally at an event in London today (20 October).

The County Council’s Supporting People Team submitted the winning bids which, combined, will see £500,000 invested over the next two years. Supporting People is a Government programme which aims to provide a better quality of life for vulnerable people in Warwickshire through housing related support to enable them to live independently.

The Council is already evaluating tenders for the Handyperson Service which is due to start in January/February 2010.  Further details will be announced about the Housing Options Service in due course.

If you or someone you care for is in need of housing related support to maintain independent living please contact the Supporting People team on 01926 742965 or look at the Supporting People website to find a service in your area http://www.warwickshire.gov.uk/supportingpeople

Link to WCC