Homelink customers give the service the thumbs up

29 January 2008

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Homelink, Woking Borough Council's in-house Home Improvement Agency, has just been rated as "excellent" or "very good" on all aspects of its service by satisfied customers. This follows a rigorous assessment by the Government's Supporting People programme, and also the successful reassessment for Foundations Quality Mark.

Homelink is a small, locally based team providing specialist advice, support and assistance to elderly, disabled or vulnerable home owners on how to maintain, improve and adapt their homes. The team works with people to help them live independently in the comfort and security of their own home. They also have a very successful Handyman Service which can help with minor adaptations and repairs, give security advice and carry out small DIY jobs at minimal cost.

Users of the services, as well as other local agencies, were randomly selected by the assessors to give their views of Homelink, and the overall message was that the service is of "very good quality". People who have used, and are involved with the service, greatly appreciate it. Comments such as "very helpful" and "good service to the community" were typical.

Cllr Simon Bellord, Woking Borough Council's Portfolio Holder for Housing said: "The Foundations Quality Mark rating shows our commitment to providing a high quality, client-focused service. It's recognition of the hard work we do in helping our clients live independently in greater comfort and security."

Sally Allen, Woking Borough Council's Private Sector Housing Manager, says the team is key to offering help and advice to all elderly, disabled or vulnerable home owners or those in private rented accommodation, in Woking and says "If anyone is not sure whether Homelink can help them, I would encourage them to speak to our friendly Admin Officers, Elaine and Joyce on 01483 743668 who will be pleased to discuss their situation and offer advice about what help and support is available."

Additional information

1. The Government's Supporting People programme is a working partnership of local government, service users and supporting agencies. The programme delivers grant assistance to housing-related projects which offer vulnerable people the opportunity to improve their quality of life by providing a stable environment, enabling greater independence.

2. The Quality Mark scheme is administered by Foundations, the national co-ordinating body for Home Improvement Agencies. The Quality Mark is awarded following rigorous inspection and quality assessment. The process includes obtaining feedback from service users and stakeholders.