Subsidised home repairs allow Somerset residents to achieve reablement

Somerset councillors and NHS leaders have welcomed the contribution of the Handihelp service over the last twelve months, which is dedicated to helping older people across the county achieve free home repairs and adaptations in order to maintain their personal freedoms and independence.

The service, run by care and support business Aster Living, now has the opportunity to build upon its first year’s success and has already employed new staff to further its output thanks to an increase in investment; subsidised services include help and assistance with repairs, aids and adaptations, home-from-hospital services, and now also gardening and decorating.

Public health specialist with NHS Somerset, Penny Guppy, commented on the success of home improvement contract: “NHS Somerset is one of the first Primary Care Trusts in the country to support the work of the Handihelp service.

“We are committed to actively promoting the independence of older people; their rehabilitation and reablement and, not least, housing. We are extremely pleased to be associated with such an innovative service that makes that possible.”

Somerset councillor Christine Lawrence concurred: “Supporting older and vulnerable people is our priority and helping them to stay living independently at home is an aim we share with many agencies and local authorities.

“I’m delighted to see this service continue to expand, listening to and responding to the needs of our residents.”

Together with range of building services, Aster Living are specialists in a number of home help packages, including post-hospital recovery and telecare, while the company are also heavily involved in supported living and extra care provision.