The Handy Van Home Security Scheme was launched in July 2005 to provide a carpentry and security service for properties at risk and vulnerable people. It has recently received extra funding from the Government Office South West to offer a full-time service until the end of March 2008.
Although the scheme prioritises burglary hotspots, anyone can register for their home to receive a full handy van security service.
South Gloucestershire’s Handy Van carpenter Steve Adams has worked for councils as a carpenter since 1968 and is familiar with all types of property repair and refurbishment work.
Steve provides a comprehensive service including surveying and assessing residents’ home security needs, fitting door and window locks and other security products and giving valuable advice. All work is free of charge and carried out to British Standards and insurance industry requirements.
Andy Hichens, senior community safety officer for Safer South Gloucestershire, said: "The handy van scheme has gone from strength to strength, with hundreds of properties benefiting from improved security since it began. We are committed to working with the police and the community to reduce house burglaries, and in doing so help vulnerable South Gloucestershire residents feel safer in their homes."
Safer South Gloucestershire regularly receives letters of thanks from people who have benefited from the handy van service, including the following comments:
“My elderly parents feel much safer now. The Handy van carpenter was very polite, clean, punctual and above all capable.”
“Steve Adams carried out a very efficient security survey of our home and afterwards rectified some of the concerns he found. We found him very pleasant and he carried out the necessary work efficiently and tidily. It is such a good scheme to have available within our area and can be of great help against the unfortunate threat we all face from possible intruders.”
The handy van scheme builds on the success of the police operated Bobby Van scheme, launched in December 2002, which aims to secure properties that have already been targeted by burglars.
To register your property for the handy van scheme, please call Ruth O’Connor on 01454 863966.
ENDS