We operate two Home Improvement Agencies, New Forest HIA (previously called Care and Repair) and Test Valley HIA, in alliance with In Touch (part of Hyde Housing Association).
They are non-profit organisations that support older people, people with disabilities or those on low incomes to repair, improve, or adapt their homes.
New Forest HIA covers the whole of the New Forest District, and Test Valley HIA covers the whole of the Borough of Test Valley.
The key aim of both our Home Improvement Agencies is to support people with continued independence in their homes. To achieve this staff work in partnership with clients, occupational therapists, local council officers and others, and offer a professional, confidential, and supportive service. The agencies help to support people by;
Identifying and organising work to peoples homes.
Providing support with applications to local councils for grants.
Exploring other options to finance work such as loans, private funding, applications to charitable trusts and benevolent organisations.
Linking people to practical services and other organisations. Examples include;
Gardeners
Pension Service
Decorators
Occupational Therapists
Electricians
HCC Adult Services
Builders
Fire Service
Plumbers
Warm Front
(Government Grant Scheme)
Handypersons
New Forest Home Improvement Agency also operates a handyperson service. You can find details of this under the Small Repairs Service.
We also help to administer the Test Valley Fix-It Scheme, a service for Test Valley Borough residents who are over 70 or who are registered disabled, and have no alternative assistance at home or locally. Minor repairs and adaptations can be carried out as well as small jobs that improve home safety.
To request work under this scheme please ring 01794 518608.
To contact New Forest Home Improvement Agency:
By post – Write to Public Offices, 65, Christchurch Road, Ringwood, Hampshire, BH24 1DH.
