The Handy Person Project (HP+)
SSJ was awarded a contract to run the city’s Handy Person Service, which is targeted at older vulnerable and other vulnerable people living in the city. The service provides general property maintenance services free of charge to people in receipt of qualifying benefits and also provides the service at very low cost to those not receiving these benefits. The Handy Person Service aims to identify vulnerable older people living in their own accommodation and provide them with support that enables them to maintain their independent living. The service aims to support a minimum of 600 people in the first year.
The key objectives of the service will be to:
- Prevent and reduce the number of home accidents by making homes as safe as possible
- Identify current or likely support needs and making appropriate referrals
- Enable people to remain in their homes for as long as possible; consequently reducing/preventing the need for expensive care packages or residential care later in life.
- Improve quality of life
- Promote independence
- Promote safety and well being
- Reduce the fear of crime
- Ensure contact with other appropriate service providers
The service aims to provide practical support to complete small works of repair, maintenance, adaptation and certain essential household tasks. These works would not normally be eligible for financial assistance from the City Council or other providers.
“The Handy Person Project put a new lock on my front door and now I feel much safer”
How to Qualify
Work requests will be taken up if Service Users are within the following criteria:
Clients
- Over 60 years of age (chargeable, unless another condition applies)
- In receipt of means tested Benefits or Disability Allowances (see list)
- Already receiving support from Social or Health Services
- Returning from Hospital and receiving broader support
Location
Within Southampton Local Authority boundary
Accommodation
Owner-occupiers in Private Sector Housing that is:
- Owned by them
- Owned by a relative
Tenants in Private Sector Housing that is:
- Rented privately
- Rented from a Housing Association
Tenants in Housing that is:
- Rented from the Local Authority
- Rented from a Registered Social Landlord
Living in accommodation:
- Alone, with a partner, or with a relative or friend that is shared in any other way
Service
Limit of 2 calls a year, starting from date of first call
Limit waived due to Emergency, Police request or at the discretion of the Project Manager
15 minute Assessment is free for everyone
Up to 2 hours labour (in addition to Assessment)
Up to £30 materials, > £30 @ cost price
Other assistance? (Refer to PSH)
Energy efficiency? (CERT, Warm Front etc.)
PUSH4 Safer Homes Home Improvement Loan, Disabled Facilities Grant?
Eligible works (See HP Service Specification)
Priorities (Working days)
Enabling Hospital Discharge – 1 day
Urgent – 2 days
Low – 5 days
Out of Scope
Referrals will NOT be taken up if Service Users are within the following criteria:
Client
Under 60 years of age
Location
Outside Southampton Local Authority boundary
Accommodation
Resident in SCC Sheltered Housing Category 2 or 2.5
In SCC funded Sheltered Accommodation
Resident in a Registered Care Home
Service
More than 2 hours labour
More than £30 materials
Painting/Decorationg
Major electrical
Gas / Boiler
Major plumbing
