A lifeline Angus service has notched up a big first year after completing more than 1,000 small repair jobs for the over 60s.
The area was left without such a scheme after funding cuts led to the closure of a similar charity in 2019.
But three of its team members drew on almost 40 years of combined experience to launch Angus Small Repairs Service.
Under CEO Helen Carlin it has flourished.
Staff saw need for ‘lifeline’ repairs service
Helen said: “My colleagues and I worked for this charity for a total of 37 years.
“We knew it was a lifeline for some, and no-one had stepped in to bridge the gap.
“It is extremely difficult to find a tradesman willing to come out for a very small job.
“It’s not impossible, but is very difficult.
“One year ago, we launched with a vision, a belief, some office space and a couple of pieces of furniture.
“We had no board, no employees, no clients and no presence within Angus.
“But what we did have was an overwhelming urge to help our communities and bring back a service that was a lifeline for many.
“Twelve months on and what a journey it has been,” she said.
It has seen more than 800 referrals and 1,050 individual repairs completed.
“Funders are believing in us and seven have funded different parts of the organisation to a total of £109,080,” she said.
Support has come from Firstport, Lottery Awards for All, NHS Charitable Foundation, Angus Council, the Williamina McLaren Trust, Angus Rural Partnership and Scotmid.
“This has allowed us to employ three members of staff, establish a volunteer service, purchase two vans, equipment and materials, and run roadshows and events.
What does Angus Small Repairs offer?
The service is aimed at the over 60s, or younger residents living with a health condition.
Its core small repairs service is chargeable but offers a subsidised rate for repairs which are for safety. It includes joinery, electrical and plumbing.
And it launched a Get Set for Winter scheme between October and March.
“It sees us doing things like replacing bulbs and batteries, changing curtains, bleeding radiators and changing heating timers, all completely free of charge,” added Helen.
“Now winter has passed, we have changed this to a garden tidy service.”
Its popularity has grown to the point where it is at current capacity, with hopes it can be expanded next year.
The service covers the whole area, but the busiest towns have been:
- Forfar (225 referrals)
- Arbroath (144)
- Carnoustie (137)
Angus Small Repairs expansion plan
“The plan was always to apply for charitable status. We are at that stage now,” Helen added.
It hopes to add two staff members and increase its volunteers.
“Our staff have knowledge and experience of dealing with individuals who have additional daily struggles to contend with, from physical or mental illness to the strains and stresses of caring for a loved one.”
Even trying to arrange the smallest of repairs can heap stress on their lives.
“Our core service is what will keep us sustainable because it is chargeable,” Helen added.
“But we pride ourselves on the community work we do through our volunteer service, partnership working and engaging with the community at every opportunity.
The not-for-profit organisation has linked with The Royal Company of Merchants charities through their mentoring programme.
“They pair you up with a skilled, experienced and successful business mentor,” Helen said.
“I like to explain it as similar to a ‘Dragon’s Den’ type set up but without the financial investment.”
Conversation