Schemes for reduced price handyman services?

Ames

Hi all.

I really need to get my flat in order. I've got a load of furniture to put together/shelves to put up and some minor repairs that need doing. I can't afford to pay commercial rates, especially since social services say that it's not a disability related expenditure so wont allow it to go onto my financial assessment.

So, is there anything out there which can help me get it done cheaper? I was thinking about contacting the local college about the plastering, but it's probably not worth their while. Or I'd be happy for a community service person to do it, but again a few hours wont be worth the bother it'll cause them in organising it.

Also for cleaning, having a good declutter, if I got a firm in to do it it'll be the best part of £100, which I just can't find. I know I'm not likely to find anywhere to do that cheaper though.

nannytone_2

i'm not sure about cleaning, but there are voluntary groups that help disabled people with things like gardening and maintenance.
try social services to see if they hold a list, or your local D I A L or welfare rights .

MrsManda

I used to work for a Housing Association which had a handyman scheme. You didn't need to be a tenant, just live in the area and be classed as vulnerable or disabled. So it may be worth contacting your local council and the local housing associations to see if they can help.

Ames

Thanks.

Nannytone, the social services here just have a list of the companies that do handyman work. I'll try welfare rights, but I think they're just the same.

MrsManda, nothing like that here unfortunately. I used to be on the tenants and residents association and we visited an estate that had that, we were so jealous!

nannytone_2

its worth trying D I A L or local disabled association.
i used to volunteer for D I A L and i know we held lists of other voluntary organisations that helped elderly and disabled people with jobs they couldnt manage on their own.

kingfisherblue

Our local council has a Care and Repair scheme - try ringing your council switchboard to see if they offer a similar service

adviceforall

Our council also has a handy man service, worth ringing yours to find out

jazabelle

Are you on DLA and council tax benefit? If so http://www.care-repair-leeds.org.uk/disabled%20adaptations.htm have a handyperson for disabled under 60s, or over 60s.