Handyperson scheme launches
A new scheme has been launched to help older and disabled people with repairs and maintenance around the home.
Most people want to live independently in their own homes for as long as possible but from time to time they may need a helping hand whether it’s a light bulb that needs fitting, a leaky tap or a door that needs re-hanging.
The HandyFix.It scheme has been set up to provide skilled, vetted professional staff to undertake these tasks at a reasonable and a subsidised rate for people who may be in receipt of benefits.
Launched by Warwickshire County Council and Age Concern Warwickshire, HandyFix.It is available countywide to older people and adults with disabilities, who live in their own home or rented accommodation.
The service can provide small building repairs, minor adaptations and odd jobs. The handyperson’s service can also help prevent risks around the home - for example, by securing loose carpets, putting up grab rails, tidying trailing cable and removing trip hazards.
Warwickshire County Council’s Supporting People Partnership has secured a £310,000 Government grant over two years for the handyperson scheme and is funding Age Concern Warwickshire to provide this valuable service.
Eleven skilled handy people have been appointed to work throughout the county for the HandyFix.It service. Each member of the team is an experienced handyperson and has had a full Criminal Records Bureau check.
Councillor Colin Hayfield, Portfolio Holder for Adult Social Care at Warwickshire County Council, said: “Often it is the small jobs around the home that can make a big difference to older people. This valuable service will reach even more people to help them live more independently, safely and comfortably in their own homes.”
Elizabeth Phillips Chief Executive of Age Concern Warwickshire said “We know from our own previous experience of providing a Handyperson service, just how essential this service is in maintaining people’s independence and wellbeing.”
If you or someone you care for would like to contact the HandyFix.It service, please call 01926 458 131 from 9am-4pm, Monday to Friday.
The handy person service is open to people over 50 or adults with disabilities living in Warwickshire. The service is unable to take on any gas or electrical related work.