Assistance (Home Improvements)

If your home is in need of repair we may be able to provide financial assistance to help with the costs of repairing your home.

The Council has recently introduced a new scheme to help homeowners make improvements to their home. The Helping Hand scheme offers financial assistance to homeowners who are struggling to afford essential repairs and advice and support for others. You can view further information on this scheme here.

The following organisations may also be able to help:

Warm Front - A Government funded scheme which provides grants to make homes warmer, healthier and more energy efficient. Freephone0800 3162814 for further advice and information.
Energy Savings Advice Trust Centre - Access to free or discounted schemes to promote energy efficiency such as loft and cavity wall insulation, new heating systems and in some cases repairs to existing heating systems. Freephone 0800 512012 for further advice and information.
Handy Person Service - Accessed through the new Home Improvement Agency (HIA) this scheme provides a person who can complete minor repairs in and around the home, such as changing light bulbs, unblocking sinks/mending leaking taps, putting up curtain rails and a host of other things. This service is aimed specifically at vulnerable adults aged 60 or over who have a chronic illness, have a disability or have sensory loss or other problems that restricts their ability to function on a day to day basis. Telephone Broadacres Home Improvement Agency 01642 345257 for further advice and information.
Independent Living Project - The Independent Living Project provides a person who can complete minor repairs in and around the home. Tel: 01642 919250 for further advice and information.
Benefits Agency - The Benefits Agency may be able to offer crisis loans. This is a repayable interest-free loan to help people who cannot meet their immediate short term expenses in an emergency or following a disaster. Given to prevent serious damage or risk to the health and safety of the applicant or a member of their family. Tel: Jobcentre Plus on 0845 6043719 for further advice and information.
Citizens Advice Bureau - The Citizens Advice Bureau offer free, confidential and impartial advice on a range of subjects, including housing and financial matters. They can help with completing forms and writing letters and may be able to advise you about the best way to raise funds for carrying out repairs to your home. Tel: 01642 607445 for further advice and information.