Hundreds of dangerous elderly falls are prevented in Dumfries and Galloway

dailyrecord.co.uk:

It is estimated that hundreds of dangerous falls by elderly people have been prevented in Dumfries and Galloway, thanks to a valuable community project.A small repairs and home support service, known as the HandyVan, has been providing vital assistance to vulnerable and elderly residents across the region.In the first nine months of 2022/23, the HandyVan service has carried out a total of 1,637 repair and equipment fitting tasks, which include 723 listed as falls prevention, 731 for home security, 164 small repairs, and 19 minor adaptations.The work was highlighted in council report, which states: “The delivery of this service is focused on the provision of minor adaptations and works to properties that promote independent living.

These include plumbing repairs, home security, installing grab rails, fitting smoke and heat alarms to meet new standards, gutter cleaning and draught proofing.“The HandyVan also obtain necessary authorisations for works, recruit, train and support volunteers and signpost to other services.”The HandyVan service is available to home owners or private tenants who are either aged over 60, disabled, have learning difficulties or mental health problems, or are a victim of domestic abuse.The important work carried out by the HandyVan service will be highlighted at the council’s economy and resources committee next Tuesday where it is being proposed that the service is funded for another year at a cost of £149,000.Councillors will also consider allocating £948,000 in 2023/24, just like last year, towards funding the region’s Care and Repair Service.This provides grants for housing adaptations for people with disabilities in the private housing sector, helping residents to maintain independence at home