Minor Works and Low Level Equipment

Basic pieces of equipment do not require a social care assessment as they are generally non-specialist but can be a great benefit in helping people to remain independent and active in their own home.  These range from simple things such as a helping hand and sock aid, through to a jar and bottle opener. 

Anyone can attend the Live Well Suite @ Community Hub Central either by appointment or at the weekly drop-in sessions were occupational therapy staff and care co-ordinators will be on hand to give advice and guidance along with provision of beneficial basic equipment to help at home which is a free service.

Further information about the Live Well Suite can be obtained by emailing HUBLiveWellSuite@hartlepool.gov.uk or by phone on 01429 272905

Basic adaptations are those that do not require a social care assessment and can be easily installed by the Handyperson Service to prevent slips, trips, and falls and promote safety within the home. The basic adaptations do not require any structural changes and includes the likes of an external grab rail by a door and a banister rail on the stairs.

There is an eligibility criterion, but access to the service is then free. People can discuss this along with other basic works that the Handyperson Service can offer to promote safety in the home by contacting:
Tel: 01429 284821
Email: bspecialneedshousing@harlepool.gov.uk

Note: Grab rails by a toilet, bath, or external handrails to pathways do require a social care assessment and will not be provided by the Handyperson Service.

Low level equipment is generally assessed by occupational therapy staff or other social care staff who have undertaken PACE equipment training and have access rights to order.  There is a wider range of low-level equipment that will again help to promote independence and safety within the home and in some instances, reduce the need for packages of care. This may include chair raising units, toilet and bathing equipment along with a broader range of equipment for use within the kitchen.

All equipment following assessment is provided free and on a loan basis by our partners Tess Community Equipment Service (TCES).  A job sheet is generally raised through the ordering system ELMS and TCES will then deliver and fit the equipment along with collection when no longer required.

Note: Some walking aids can be provided through this route but generally a referral will be needed to a physio service.

Low level adaptations are generally assessed by occupational therapy staff or other social care staff who have undertaken PACE adaptation training or TCES mobility training.  Provision of low-level adaptations are provided to help promote independence and reduce risks within the home.

These low-level adaptations include the likes of grab rails by a toilet or bath, the creation of a half step to a door, alterations to lighting, and specialist plinths to raise chairs or beds.  The low-level adaptations are free and depending on the tenure of the property, a request may be made to a housing association for these works to be completed unless the person lives in their own home or privately rents, then the works will be requested and completed by HBC’s Direct Service Operatives (DSO).

Note: adaptations that need a structural change will generally be classed as major adaptation work.