i. To enable us to continue project management (agency support) to achieve emergency housing repairs/improvements for vulnerable people - using listed, monitored local contractors. ii. To sponsor works carried out by our Technicians ('Handyperson'), which supports independent living, enabling the householder to retain an element of control over small scale, yet essential home improvements (eg: fitting flat pack furniture; home security measures etc)

Access to emergency repair works' funding from local authority sources has ceased. Minor works (of a maintenance or repair issue) can reduce/prevent the future need for large scale renovation. Housing Improvement has a direct impact on health and wellbeing for low-income households. Particularly when this relates to light, heat, power, roofing, crime prevention and/or water supply (leaks, etc). Hardship funds can also be used to sponsor small works (crime prevention, handyperson).

Having access to hardship funds means that emergency works can be undertaken immediately for those who do not have alternative funding available. Vulnerable people value 'that little bit of help' to enable them to retain choice, control and dignity in their lives. Preventative works are exactly that: Research reveals: "Falls are a common and often devastating problem among older people, causing morbidity, mortality and use of health care services including premature nursing home admission"