Though most of us want to live independently in our own homes there are times when you may require a bit of help. This might be with:
- day to day tasks like preparing meals, shopping or cleaning
- personal tasks like having a wash or shower, getting in and out of bed, or getting dressed
- support with caring for someone else
- adapting your property to help you remain independent
There are services that can help you, or the person you care for, to be independent for as long as possible. They could be provided by voluntary or charitable organisations, independent companies or the local authority, if you are eligible.
Support to stay in your own home
We work with borough and district councils to provide a range of services to help you to stay in your own home. You can browse this section of our website for more details. Or contact your local borough or district council.
The Independent Living Service operates across Derbyshire for adults aged over 55. The service provides practical help to enable someone with support needs to live independently. To discuss the eligibility criteria please contact your local provider which is detailed in the leaflet attached to this page.
You can take an online assessment on Adapt My Home to find out if your home is suitable for your needs. AskSARA provides self help guidance on equipment to use at home.
Safe and well checks
You can ask Derbyshire Fire and Rescue to come to your home and check your smoke alarms, identify any hazards, and help you make an escape plan.
They can also assess your risk of falls and put you in touch with other local organisations to help ensure your safety and wellbeing.
DIY and maintenance jobs
Whether you need help with gardening, cleaning, handyman type tasks, or any other jobs you can confidently find lists of local reputable traders on the Trusted Trader directory.
South Derbyshire Community Voluntary Support (CVS) is a local charity funded by South Derbyshire District Council. It's available to vulnerable and disabled people and those with long term health conditions who are home-owners or living in private or social rented properties (with permission from their landlord). They'll also help to sign post people to other support available as well and help them to access paid for services.
The Volunteer Centre's Safe and Sound project is a volunteer based. It's not specifically a handy person service but they'll help people who are incapacitated with shopping and DIY tasks. The project covers Chesterfield and North East Derbyshire areas.
Keeping your home warm
If you have any problems keeping your home warm or covering the cost of fuel you may be able to get information and advice from your housing provider or local district or borough council. You can refer yourself for warm homes advice using our First Contact scheme.
Read our advice about keeping warm and staying well in winter.
Staying well
Our health and wellbeing section has lots of practical advice about staying well for as long as possible.
First Contact Derbyshire signposting scheme
The First Contact scheme is an easy way for people to be put in touch with a wide range of local services simply by using one point of contact.