A scheme launched by South Norfolk Council designed to give older and vulnerable residents help with small repairs in their homes and gardens has now been widened to include all residents in the district.

The Handyperson Scheme is designed to tackle small jobs that take up to two hours or less to complete.

Jobs can include fitting low energy bulbs and energy monitors, rewiring a plug or replacing a fuse, up to two hours decorating work and cleaning and emptying gutters.

Other work can include window locks, grab rails, replacing washers and fitting new taps and draught-proofing, pipe insulation and hot water cylinder jackets.

Yvonne Bendle, the council's cabinet member for early help and well-being, said: 'Making simple adaptations to the home can make a huge difference to the health and well-being of residents.

'These small jobs can help keep our residents safe and warm and enable them to stay in their homes longer. But this service isn't just for our older and vulnerable residents.'

The extended council scheme covers all forms of tenure and work that is the legal responsibility of landlords is not covered.

People on means tested benefits and either registered disabled or suffering from long-term ill health are entitled to two hours labour and the installation of grab rails, smoke alarms, key safes, door chains and window locks is free.

People will need to pay the cost of other materials if needed.

For those registered disabled or suffering long-term ill health but not in receipt of means tested benefits, the Handyperson Scheme costs £20 per hour plus materials.

Visit www.south-norfolk.gov.uk/handyperson or call 0808 168 2000.