5.6 "Handy Persons" Schemes

Handyperson projects provide practical help with small tasks around the home which may be difficult for older people or those with a disability. They aim to fill the gap between major home improvement work and home support services such as home care arranged by the Council’s Social Work Services.

They can provide helpful advice for people who require tradesmen to undertake small repairs. For example, those jobs which are not eligible for assistance via the local Care and Repair Scheme.

They can also offer information on energy efficiency and on the different housing options for people if their needs change. They can put people in touch with whichever Council Service or other agency can help the most.

How the Project Works

The handyperson has a van equipped with tools and can undertake odd jobs and small repairs. They may also be able to offer general information and advice. If they don’t know the answer to a question, they can get in touch with someone who does. These are some examples of the types of tasks which are carried out:

Fit battery operated smoke alarms
Fit hand rails
Clear pathways around the house (not gardening)
Fit curtain rails and hang curtains
Move furniture within the house and fit shelves
Replace tap washers and unblock sinks
Replace light bulbs, replace plugs and change fuses
Re-putty windows
Repair/replace access gates

How much is charged?

No charge will be made for the handyperson’s time or travel expenses, but clients will be charged for the cost of any materials required for the work.

Contact Information

Handy Person projects are available in all parts of Highland. Contact the scheme in your area:

Inverness, Nairn, Badenoch & Strathspey

Cairn Housing Association Ltd
Cairn House
Waterloo Place
Inverness IV1 1LU

Tel: 01463-229151

e-mail: handyperson@cairnha.com

Inverness and Nairn

Volunteering Highland
Millburn Road
Inverness

Tel: 01463-711393

e-mail: handypersons@volunteeringhighland.org

Strathnairn

Care in Strathnairn