Handyperson service supports people to live independently

The service can undertake minor adaptations to homes, day-to-day DIY tasks and small repairs which people don’t feel confident about doing.

To be eligible, you must live in Hartlepool and either be of pensionable age or have a chronic illness, disability, sensory impairment or other condition which restricts your day-to-day functioning.

To find out more about the service call 01429 272905 or email helping@hartlepool.gov.uk

(left-right): Frank Blair and Scott Wallace

Special Needs Housing Manager John Whitfield said: “We are able to carry out work using materials supplied and fitted by the service, or using materials bought by a resident and fitted by us.

“Examples of the former include fitting grab and bannister rails, carpet trims, door chains, installing telephone extensions and making safe loose or trailing wires.

“Jobs that we can carry out using materials bought by a resident include replacing light bulbs, changing fuses and plugs, checking for leaks, fitting shelves and pictures, unblocking sinks, fitting curtains and blinds, replacing or fixing toilet seats, sealing around baths and showers, fitting locks inside and outside, putting together or dismantling flat-pack furniture and fitting solar-powered security lights.

“This is not an exhaustive list and I would encourage people meeting our criteria to get in touch and find out more about how we may be able to help them.

“I would also like to stress that the service will never solicit work by doorstep calling.”