From 1st April 2009, Three Rivers will provide a Handyperson and Minor Adaptations Service across County Durham.

The joint services will be funded by Durham County Council Adult Care, Durham County Council Strategic Housing Authority, the Supporting People Partnership and County Durham NHS (PCT).

The handyperson service focuses on older and vulnerable people and will carry out small repairs and maintenance jobs within people’s homes and their immediate external environment. It aims to promote independent living, reduce accidents within the home, improve quality of life and maintain a sense of well-being, safety and security for the residents of the County.

The minor adaptations service, which will be carried out by the handyperson, is aimed at ensuring that residents are safe and can live independently in their homes. This service will cover Derwentside, Durham & Chester-le-Street, Easington, Wear Valley, Sedgefield and Teesdale.