A SCHEME that helps make the homes of elderly and disabled people safer has reached an important milestone.

The Durham Handyperson Service, which is run by housing provider Four Housing and funded by Durham County Council, has completed its 13,000th job and is set to run for a further three years.

The 13,000th job was carried out at the home of Durham resident Miss Jennifer Morgan, who lives in one of the 9,359 households that have benefitted from the Handyperson Service over the last twelve months.

She said “Having a professional, quick and efficient service available is brilliant. The Handyperson Service has helped change lights, repair carpets, put shelves up and extended my phone line to my bedroom, allowing me to speak to friends and family more easily.

“The service is a hidden gem and I don’t know what I would do without it.”

The eight-strong team carries out jobs ranging from fitting locks and door bells and mending leaking taps to minor adaptations recommended by occupational therapists.

Philippa Hughes, of Four Housing, said: “We are really proud of the Handyperson team and their commitment to make a real difference to the lives of vulnerable people across Durham.”