Free Security Checks For Over-60s

Help the Aged and Age Concern, two charities who merged into one earlier this year, are promoting HandyVan, a national service offering free security checks, and where necessary fitting mortise locks, window locks and door chains to people over 60 in the M22 and M23 areas.

They also fit 10-year smoke alarms and 5-year carbon monoxide alarms, as well as extra stair and grab rails, minor repairs and DIY tasks.

Staff warn about bogus callers and leave an information pack at each home they visit.

Funded by the Home Office, fitters visit up to three clients a day, based on two hours per job. The Safer Homes Project, can be contacted on 0845 026 1055, or e-mail handyvan@helptheaged.org.uk.