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The service has improved the quality of life for thousands of people in need by carrying out repairs and safety checks in their homes.
The minor repairs scheme is run by Independent Futures (i-futures) – part of Devon & Cornwall Housing group – in line with its commitment to help people live life to the full in their own home with little or no outside support.
Fitting smoke alarms, installing grab rails, putting up shelves, changing door locks and replacing light bulbs are among the services offered.
And by addressing safety issues in the home – such as trailing cables, loose rugs, over-used electricity points and poorly heated rooms – it also acts as a preventative service, reducing accidents and subsequent reliance on organisations like the NHS and Social Services and saving the taxpayer money.
The 15,000th job was completed in Mid and West Cornwall when Natalie O’Neill, from Redruth, had a new kitchen door fitted after contacting the handyperson service for help.
Ms O’Neill, who is a wheelchair-user and also partially-sighted due to her multiple sclerosis condition, said: “I’m extremely grateful for the service – I’ve been using it regularly for two years and it makes a real difference to my life.
“The service has helped me to get my home just the way I want it – which is important for my well-being, as I’m often housebound.”
Amanda Short, Handyperson Service Team Manager at i-futures, said: “We are delighted to reach this significant milestone and help so many people in need with everyday ‘odd jobs’ that many of us take for granted.
“The service makes a real difference to the quality of people’s lives and helps elderly and disabled people in Cornwall to stay independent in their homes.
“It’s extremely reassuring for them to know that this service exists and, in some cases, can be a real lifeline for them.”
The service recently celebrated its 10th anniversary and in the past year has carried out nearly 3,000 home visits, with most minor repairs undertaken within five days of bookings being made.
The service’s core clients are those over 60 or registered disabled, but it also helps anyone classed as vulnerable by another professional body.
Anyone who thinks that they may be eligible for the service and wishes to discuss the work they require should phone 0800 6781676. Calls are free.
Prices are typically £15 per hour including VAT, or £9 including VAT for those who claim certain benefits, plus the costs of any materials used.
Liz Nichols, Commissioning Manager at Cornwall Council, which helps fund the service, added: “This is great news. It’s essential that vulnerable and older people are able to access a service as soon as they identify the need. Having a subsidised service ensures that people act quickly and prevent their needs level increasing. Handyperson customers are able to live as independently as possible in their chosen accommodation for as long as possible. This type of service is obviously highly valued by its customers.”
