A service to help vulnerable Wolverhampton residents get vital improvements to their homes is not ending due to budget cuts.

The 'Handy Person' service, which is being run by Wolverhampton City Council in partnership with Wolverhampton Homes, is open to residents aged over 60 and registered disabled or in receipt of income related benefits.

An initial pilot scheme was opened and due to end in March, but funding has been identified in the authority's Housing Assistance Programme to ensure the scheme continues on a rolling basis.

Councillor Peter Bilson, Wolverhampton City Council's Cabinet Member for Economic Regeneration and Prosperity, said: "We are delighted that the Handy Person scheme has proved to be very popular.

"Because of this, we have identified the necessary funding to continue the scheme beyond the end of the pilot next month.

"With the current economic climate and the announcement of the severe cuts we are having to make, people are understandably concerned about the future of services such as these.

"But we can reassure residents that this scheme is not ending in March and they will continue to benefit from the service."

Under the service, which is part of the council's Wolverhampton Home Improvement Service (WHIS), vulnerable residents who are owner occupiers can get essential small repairs carried out free of charge.

This can range from fixing leaking taps, broken windows and securing loose carpets to energy efficiency measures to make their homes warmer.

Residents who access the service will be visited by a customer service officer who will discuss their living conditions to identify what works, additional support or grants that might be beneficial to them.

The works will then be carried out by Wolverhampton Homes; the Council's arm's length housing company.

Enquires can be made by telephoning 01902 551155 email at whis@wolverhampton.gov.uk and details of the service can be found at Type=articles;Articleid=3248;Title=Handyperson Service;.

  • released: Monday 24 February, 2014