Council handyperson service could be axed
Cornwall Council says it's losing £170k a year
A service that helps disabled and older people with things like small repairs could be axed.
Cornwall Council says the handyperson service is losing o£170,000 pounds a year because of increased demand and costs.
At the moment, people aged over 60 or those who have a registered disability can ask for help with things like small building repairs, odd jobs, loft clearance and other tasks.
It costs £22 an hour, except for people on means-tested benefits, who are charged £12.72.
But the council says despite those charges, it's still losing money.
Cornwall Council cabinet lead for housing, Cllr Olly Monk said: “This is a discretionary service, which, although customers are charged a fee, is generating a loss of £170k a year.
“We’re working hard to protect frontline services wherever we can by seeing how we can deliver them in different and more cost-effective ways.
“We think it makes sense to signpost people to alternative solutions, such as our adult social care services who provide assistance with the installation of handrails, grab rails and other minor adaptations free of charge, where people are eligible. Some voluntary organisations also provide similar help, as well as other independent handyperson businesses.”
You can take part in the consultation on whether to close the service here.
It runs until the 12th of January.