In the community

Handyperson service

Age Concern Barnet's handyman service provides practical help to older people in their homes. The service helps older people maintain their independance at home.  Adjustments can be made to homes to prevent falls and assistance given to keep homes safe.  The service also aids hospital discharge.

We cannot do jobs that require a qualified tradesman such as electrical, plumbing or central heating or ones that require two people. We do not do any gardening or decorating, but we will refer on to an appropriate provider when possible.

Examples of the kind of work covered by the scheme includes:

• replacing light bulbs
• fitting security equipment such as door chains, locks and spyholes
• installing smoke detectors
• taking down and putting up curtains
• hanging blinds
• changing tap washers
• installing key safes

There is no charge for labour but any materials used are charged at cost.

The present scheme is funded by the Primary Care Trust. From July this year, the London Borough of Barnet is providing Age Concern Barnet with a substantial amount of money to expand the scheme. The only proviso is that the money will have to be spent in the next 12 months. So if you have any jobs that need doing or know someone who needs some help around the house, get in touch with the Home Maintenance Service at the Meritage Centre on 020 8150 0963 or email handy.acb@btconnect.com. We want to help as many people as possible.

We are also applying to the Home Office for money to provide home security items such as door and window locks. Working with the safer neighbourhood projects, we will be able to provide a comprehensive home security package, which should be available free of charge. 

 

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