Garden and getting in and out of the house

Navigating the outdoor areas around your home, including paths, steps and the garden, requires attention to safety.

Are paths clear of leaves and overgrown plants?

Keeping your garden tidy and free of obstacles will make it safer.

Are your paving stones free of moss and algae?

Moss and algae can become slippery when wet; prune over hanging plants and branches to improve light and air circulation. You can buy products to remove algae or ask someone to remove it with a pressure washer.

Do you have any uneven or broken paving slabs?

Ask someone to replace or straighten them up.

Are your flower/vegetable beds at ground level (rather than in containers or raised beds)?

Try not to spend too long in one position and take care when standing up from a bent over position.

Try to alternate activities between seated ones and standing ones.

Consider container gardening or raised beds.

Do you have high step(s) to get in and out of the property?

You may benefit from an additional step and / or grab rails.

Remember to use your walking aid (if you use one) outdoors as well.

[box]

Handyperson service in Peterborough:

Contact: 01733 863895

Website: www.peterborough.gov.uk/pin and search for ‘Care and Repair’

Peterborough Handyperson service is run by Care and Repair at Peterborough City Council can assist you to repair, maintain, and adapt your home. The service can also deliver minor aids and adaptations that help to prevent falls and accidents in the home.  The service is mainly for small, non-urgent repairs and the scheme uses vetted contractors to undertake the work.

Handyperson service in Cambridgeshire

Contact: 01480 700205

Email: chp@ageukcap.org.uk 

Web: www.ageuk.org.uk/cambridgeshireandpeterborough 

Cambridgeshire Handyperson Service is run by Age UK Cambridgeshire and Peterborough to help with minor alterations, repairs, and DIY for people aged 65 and over and any adult with a disability. Charges may apply for some services. 

Trading Standard

www.buywithconfidence.gov.uk 

We all need to find a reliable trader from time to time and asking your friends for recommendations is a good way to do this. Alternatively, Trading Standard operate an approved trader scheme called Buy with Confidence. All the businesses listed on this website have been vetted and approved by Trading Standards to ensure that they operate in a legal, honest, and fair way. 

Safe Local Trades

www.safelocaltrades.com  

Safe Local Trades is another website that you can look at for a tradesperson such as an electrician, plumber, carpenter, or painter/decorator. All the tradespeople listed have been vetted and their performance is monitored.  

[/box]