A service which helps thousands of older and disabled people in Cornwall to live independently celebrated its successes with a launch at the National Maritime Museum Falmouth.

The Handyperson Service, run by Devon and Cornwall Housing Association, presented its extended programme to 60 funders, partners and supporters, including Julia Goldsworthy MP.

The service has received £250,000 of funding from Cornwall Council's Supporting People programme to help a further 1,650 people over the year.

David Davies, programme manager for the Handyperson Service, said:

"We're delighted that we've been able to celebrate the superb work carried out through the Handyperson Service, but most importantly get the word out that we can help even more people.

"We've received valuable feedback from clients that while they think the Handyperson Service is fantastic, not enough people know about it. This was our chance to shout about what we do."

The Handyperson Service carried out odd jobs at a subsidised rate of £7.50 or £12.50 an hour depending on a client's eligibility. In February, it celebrated a major milestone of completing its 10,000th job.

The extended service, funded by Supporting People, has enabled Devon and Cornwall Housing to take on a further three Handymen and another administrator to take appointments.

Customers receive support by calling the Handyperson Service using a freephone number to discuss the work required.

Liz Nichols, Supporting People said:

"We are delighted that additional funding has been made available to meet the needs of vulnerable and older people and respond to the increasing demand for the service.
"Customers are able to identify their own needs and contact the handyperson service to meet this need. This launch is an excellent opportunity to celebrate what is certain to be a successful service."