Care & Repair Services in England

Definition: Provide advice and assistance with housing repairs, adaptations and improvements

Home Improvement Agencies are locally based, not-for-profit organisations. They help older, disabled and vulnerable homeowners or private tenants to repair, improve, maintain or adapt their homes. Some also provide services to council and housing association tenants. Their prime purpose is to help people continue to live in their own homes in comfort, safety, security and independence.

There are approximately 250 Home Improvement Agencies located across England, operating in 317 local authority areas. 90% of residents in England have access to a Home Improvement Agency. They are sometimes referred to as 'Care & Repair' agencies or 'Staying Put' schemes. Across the country, Home Improvement Agencies deal with around 98,000 enquiries each year, resulting in 38,000 jobs with a total value of over £85 million.

The national co-ordinating body for Care & Repair services is Foundations.

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