Handy Person Scheme
What is the Handy Person Scheme?
The Handy Person Scheme assists older people and people with disabilities by undertaking minor repairs to their property. These are the type of general repairs that are often too small for contractors to price, but may be too difficult for older and disabled individuals to tackle on their own.
Who is eligible for help?
This service is being offered to ALL Isles of Scilly residents, whether homeowners or tenants, who are over the age of 60 or who have a disability. However, if you are a tenant we would not normally be able to carry out work that is the landlord’s responsibility. Requests may be taken from individuals or organisations.
Is there a charge for the work?
Yes. All those who receive the service will pay for materials used. If you are in receipt of a qualifying means-tested benefit (Income Support, Guaranteed Pension Credit, Housing Benefit or full Council Tax benefit) labour is charged at £5.00 per hour. If you are not in receipt of any of these benefits, labour is charged at £10.00 per hour. These charges are inclusive of VAT.
How do I pay for the work?
When the job is finished you will be asked for your signature to say that you are happy with the work. An invoice will then be sent to you to pay at your earliest convenience.
How do I contact the Handy Person service?
The Handy Person service can be contacted, Monday to Friday between 9am and 4pm, by telephoning 01720 424000. Or by email at: handyperson@scilly.gov.uk
What sort of work can the Handy Person do?
◦ Putting up a shelf or curtain pole
◦ Unblocking a sink
◦ Moving small items of furniture
◦ Small, one-off, garden jobs
◦ Wiring / changing a plug
◦ Changing a light bulb
◦ Fitting grab or hand rails
◦ Renewing bath sealant
◦ Replacing a fuse or tap washers
◦ Hanging pictures or mirrors
◦ Small carpentry work
◦ General minor repairs & DIY
Are there any tasks that the Handy Person cannot undertake?
Yes. The Handy Person cannot undertake work involving decorating, landscape gardening or ongoing garden maintenance, mains gas and electricity. In order to keep appointments, the Handy Person can only carry out pre-arranged work in the allotted time. Unfortunately we are unable to provide an emergency service. If a job is too large for the Handy Person service we will make every effort to advise you further.
For help, advice, and Handy Person bookings, please telephone the Town Hall One Stop Shop on: 01720 424000 between 9am and 4pm, Monday to Friday.
We look forward to hearing from you.
