Julie Cosgrove

Caledonia has been providing the service to Perth & Kinross residents for over 15 years, and this new joint £1 million contract will see it support residents across both local authority areas.  

The Care & Repair service assists elderly or disabled homeowners, or those privately renting, to access grant funding from their local authority to make necessary medical adaptations to their homes. Occupational Therapists undertake an assessment of individuals’ needs and their homes and make recommendations on work required to enable them to live in the comfort and safety of their own home.

It is estimated that around 330 cases will be supported each year across both local authority areas. Caledonia Housing Association will provide advice on areas including energy efficiency, safety and security, in addition to providing practical assistance with adaptations, including one of the most common adaptations, accessible bathrooms. Ramps, step lifts, kitchen adaptations, stairlifts and hoists can also be accessed through the service.

Julie Cosgrove, chief executive at Caledonia Housing Association, said: “Perth & Kinross Council has again put their trust in Caledonia to deliver this vital service, and Angus Council has seen our ability to deliver a fast, efficient and cost-effective service to residents. 

“This new contract will support our continued growth strategy to provide a more neighbourhood-focussed service, with plans to create two new positions within the Care and Repair team to deliver person-centred services across the wider geographic area.”

Barbara Renton, Perth & Kinross Council’s executive director of housing and environment, added: “Caledonia Housing Association has been successfully delivering Care and Repair services to our community for many years and we’re delighted to continue this strong partnership. I’m also delighted that Angus Council are part of this contract, as this will help deliver further efficiencies for the people who need the Care and Repair service.”

Angus Council’s housing spokesperson, Cllr Craig Fotheringham, said: “At a time when people are having to make difficult decisions that affect where and how they live, it is essential we have support services in place to assist them. Caledonia Housing Association has an established and experienced Care and Repair team that will deliver a home-based and personalised service to our community and we are pleased to be working with them.”