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The four HandyVan vehicles with specialist community wardens help people combat loneliness and offer practical help too.

The Late Show welcomed three of the team, Karl Spooner, Ray Dobson and Rich Wood to talk about their work and the aims of the service. The service is funded by the Hull City Council, the Royal British Legion and the Goodwin Development Trust and works across the city to help people maintain their independence.Μύ The team says that simple things such as the installation of a hand rail can make a big difference to a person living on their own to allow them to maintain their independence.

Members of the team encounter a large number of people living alone who have inadequate security measures and this is where the team can give particular support. The team in conjunction with Humberside Fire and Rescue are also able to install smoke alarms free of charge to those that need them.

With rising energy costs the team also look for ways older people can make their homes more energy efficient by referring them to other agencies who can help them with insulation costs. In conjunction with local electricity companies they also make available low energy bulbs.

Most people who take-up of some of the services on offer, do so at no charge although those with substantial savings are expected to make a small contribution to the costs.

Karl Spooner

Each of the HandyVan team worked in the building or construction trades before taking up their respective positions. Specialised training has given them the necessary communication skills to ensure they gain the trust of older people.

The team's visits can be a way for isolated people to maintain links with the community. It also gives the team a chance to ensure that older people are well and where necessary encourage them to make use of the health service where appropriate.

The team says they meet characters with fascinating stories to tell although are sometimes saddened when someone who's been unable to cope with maintaining their home properly due to illness or disability. Members of the team often do 'odd' jobs such as putting flat pack furniture together and say people are generous in their thanks but often have to turn down offers of cake in order to keep an eye on their waistline.

People can arrange a free security survey by 'phone. Call (01482) 228 677 or (01482) 300 300 or by contacting the local community warden team in person.