Many older people feel scared to leave their homes or answer their door to strangers. There are also those who need some support to remain living independently in their own homes. The HandyVan service provides peace of mind to older people by making their homes more safe and secure, thereby reducing the risk of loss through burglary.
Free fitting of home security products
Benefitting older people
Between 1995 and 2009, the Help the Aged award-winning HandyVan service made more than 130,000 order people safe in their homes. It operates in 40 areas in England, Scotland and Wales. (
see map)
Making a referral
If you are an older person and you are concerned about your home safety or security, OR if you are aware of an older family member, friend or neighbour, who may need the service, the ring HandyVan for further information about this free service.
Practical support
HandyVan provides and fits a riange of safety and security products in clients' homes. It is primarily aimed at older people who meet the criteria and no charges are made for labour or the products installed.
The criteria for the Leeds are currently as follows (correct at Sept 2009)
Applicants are 60 years of age or over.
Applicants' disposable savings/assets do not exceed £10,000 (not including the value of their home).
HandyVans operate in their area.
For anyone falling outside the criteria, chargeable options are available on request. The range of products installed include:
- smoke alarms
- door chains
- mortice locks
- mortice bolts
- window locks
- door viewers
- minor repairs and DIY jobs
- handrails and handgrabs
- locks available for uPVC doors and windows
- carbon monoxide detector
The fitter also leaves behind information on other services, such as SeniorLine, and free welfare rights advice phone-line service on 0808 800 6565.
Important information
HandyVan fitters always carry photo identification cards and arrive by appointments,
REMEMBER to:
- always ask for indentification
- secure your door chain if you have one; and
- make sure you are happy that the caller is genuine before letting a stranger into your home
For information on HandyVan call 0845 026 1055
