As we become older the risk of falling in our home increases dramatically.

SERVE'S Accident Prevention Scheme is an attempt to help older people live independently in their own homes by preventing accidents.

More than 80% of all admissions to the Accident & Emergency Department at Kettering General Hospital for people over 65 are as a result of a fall at home.

SERVE works in partnership with Heartlands PCT, Northamptonshire County Council and East Northants District Council to help people remain safe in their own homes and to reduce the risks of falls.

Our trained volunteers will visit your home and carry out an assessment for safety purposes.  They will advise you on any potential hazzards and dangers and, with your permission, will arrange for our own handyman to carry out any necessary minor repairs and adaptations.

If there is a particular problem, like getting in and out of the bath, then an Occupational Therapist will visit you to advise you.

As we get older the stairs that we have climbed for years can become a hazard.

That loose carpet that we have known about and ignored for some time can suddenly be a danger.

Changing a light bulb can be a cause of a fall. Getting out of the bath can be a problem.

How does it work?

• Our trained volunteers will call and assess your home.
• Any recommendations are passed to our Handyman.
• If we cannot do the work we will refer it to the appropriate agency.
• Assistance is available with benefit applications where appropriate.

Am I elegible?

• Residents within the East Northants District are eligible.
• Anyone over the age of 60 can apply to use the service.

How much will it cost?

• The initial assessment is free.
• Work carried out by our handyman is free.
• We normally charge for materials.

This service, including any labour costs, is entirely free and you will only be charged the cost of materials.

For further details or a free home assessment please contact:

Sue Graham on 01933 315555