Starring role for Ashington free repair service

An organisation set up to offer help to vulnerable people in the county is celebrating after receiving thousands of pounds to support its work.

Ashington-based Northumberland Stars runs a free handyman service for elderly and disabled people and was recently given £21,000 in funding by Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service and a further £1,500 from Northumbria Police to help its efforts.

Trevor Bell, business development officer at Northumberland Stars, said: "We are a not-for-profit organisation set up as a social enterprise to offer a free handyman service throughout Northumberland.

"We help the over-60s, the disabled and their carers. If anybody wants anything doing in the house, from changing lightbulbs or curtains, to fitting smoke alarms and security equipment, then we can help them.

"It's all about letting people stay in their own homes for as long as possible and allowing them to have that bit of independence.

"We are always looking for funding to maintain the service.

"In the past we have been helped by organisations such as the county council, the NHS or through various grant schemes, so we were delighted to now have the backing of the police and fire and rescue service."

The donation from the fire service included 1,000 modern smoke detectors with 10-year batteries, meaning less chance of the homes of the vulnerable being without the vital equipment.

Also being celebrated is the cash from Northumbria Police, which will be used to supply security items such as locks, chains and door viewers.

The new equipment will be fitted by Northumberland Stars' team of five handymen, who operate throughout the county and who are always happy to help those who need it most.

As well as employing five handymen, the organisation has two Ashington-based development workers and a call centre operative working in Blyth.

All jobs are carried out by experienced workers who aim to help people to live in comfort, safety and security.

Small DIY tasks are carried out free of charge, apart from the cost of any materials, and jobs that can be undertaken include home safety assessments, repairs to household interiors, fitting fire and home safety devices, and fitting child-safety equipment.

Anyone can access the service, which is free to those over 60 and the disabled.

To make an appointment, call the booking line on (01670) 351135.

Ashington Journal, 16th April