This innovative scheme aims to help reduce accidents in the homes of older people.

All clients who contact the scheme receive a Home Risk Assessment which will be carried out by one of our trained representatives.

The Home Risk Assessment provides:
· Identification of potential tripping and falling hazards
· Accident prevention advice
· Advice about the correct disposal of out of date medicines.

Following the Home Risk Assessment our Handyvan team will carry out identified accident prevention work. The scheme is free, however donations to cover the cost of materials used are gratefully received.

Many of the referrals received are from local service providers including Occupational Therapists, Care line and Social Services.

So that we minimise waiting times for clients we are keen to recruit new volunteers to carry out Home Risk Assessments, assist our Handymen or provide administration support. Full training and ongoing support will be provided.

The Scheme also directs clients to other helpful services including:
· Benefit Checks
· Information and Advice
· Age Concern Friendship Scheme
· Ageing Well Programmes
· Home Energy Efficiency Schemes

One of the highlights of the scheme is the innovative qualities of the service. This was recognised by other health and social care professionals with the project being a runner up in the Dept of Health Modernisation Awards 2002 for the Northern & Yorkshire Region in the category of older person’s services. It is featured on their web site as a model of good practice.