The project is a joint Guildford and Waverley Borough Councils’ initiative with the aim of preventing older and disabled residents from suffering falls.

The annual Home Improvement Agency Awards celebrate the work of 170 social-value driven organisations throughout England that provide adaptations and other services designed to help disabled and older people live independently in their own homes.

Cllr Nikki Nelson-Smith

Cllr Nikki Nelson-Smith, lead councillor for social welfare, heritage and the arts, said: “I’m delighted that the innovative work of our Care and Repair team has been recognised nationally with this commendation. It’s important that we look

“It’s important that we look out for the welfare of those who may be getting more unsteady on their feet and our falls prevention scheme draws together a whole range of ways that we can help. You can be referred to the service through your GP or by contacting our Care and Repair team, so please get in touch if you think we can help.”

The Let’s Get Steady project was commended for developing a programme of free falls prevention sessions which are available to elderly and vulnerable people at risk of falling in their homes.

The session offers advice on adaptations to the home environment, strength and balance exercises and nutrition, amongst other topics. Access to services including the council’s handyperson scheme, which can also provide a home check and fit grab rails and banister rails is also available free of charge through the programme.

To date, the Care and Repair team has delivered regular monthly sessions to over 140 people, each session having a cost saving to the NHS of £3,153 per session.

Awards host Lord Best said: “Once again, these awards demonstrate the innovative work being undertaken by home improvement agencies across the country.

“They are playing a crucial role in enabling people to live safely in their own homes and in the process are helping to relieve the pressure on health and social care services.”

Paul Smith, director of Foundations, the national body for home improvement agencies, said: “What is particularly inspiring is the way in which HIAs have sought to develop robust and sustainable services to meet local health and care priorities, innovating and collaborating with others to deliver tangible outcomes for their customers.”

To contact GBC’s Care and Repair team call 01483 444476.