Care and Repair Carmarthenshire supports older residents by helping them to live in safe, warm, comfortable homes. The charity offers a range of services, including expert advice and support, and practical assistance to complete home improvements, adaptations and repairs. This initiative enables older people across Carmarthenshire to maximise their independence and freedom. We chat with Agency Manager, Jeff Adams, to find out more. Best Home Independence & Safety Charity 2025 - South Wales In 1979, many older homeowners in Wales were living without basic amenities, often in housing unfit for human habitation. To address those needs, Care and Repair founded its first branch in Ferndale, Rhondda. By 1990, the plight of older homeowners also remained unchanged in many other Welsh counties. However, with growing national awareness of the problem, further funding options became available. As a result, Care and Repair opened further branches across Wales. Today, having attained charity status, Care and Repair boasts 13 agencies covering every corner of the country. Jeff tells us: “Our vision is that all older people in Wales can live independent lives in safe, warm, accessible homes. Our purpose is to work towards this for the benefit of the community in Carmarthenshire. We provide services that improve the living conditions of older and disabled people in the county.” Enabling older people to remain in their own homes makes sense on many levels, but only if their homes cater for their needs. Care and Repair’s mission is to ensure its clients’ homes are fit for purpose. The wide range of services the charity assists with includes funded small works schemes, Disabled Facilities Grant work, and advice on home repairs and adaptations. Jeff explains more about the services on offer in Carmarthenshire: “We’re an established, dedicated older persons’ service offering a comprehensive approach to support in the county. Our Casework Service delivers a tailored, personcentred experience, catering to each client’s needs. This includes helping clients maximise their income, applying for eligible benefits, or arranging essential home adaptations and repairs.” Care and Repair’s technical and handyman services offer practical, hands-on support. Teams of trusted experts work side by side to help design, cost and oversee building projects, as well as carrying out essential works that reduce the risk of accidents. Jeff explains: “One of our most pressing challenges at the moment is hospital discharge support. Often, small-scale adaptations and interventions are crucial in supporting patients returning home from the hospital. Ensuring homes are safe and suitable for recovery helps prevent bed blocking and reduces the risk of readmission.” Due to the pressure on local hospitals, Care and Repair Carmarthenshire is also feeling the strain. Committed to expanding its capacity to meet demand, securing adequate funding remains a major hurdle. Funding streams are often difficult to access, and the amounts available rarely match the scale of demand. Regardless of challenges, the team is committed to offering a compassionate, collaborative service. Jeff says: “We foster a supportive and inclusive environment. We value every team member for their contribution. We work together across departments. Staff share knowledge and resources to deliver a truly holistic service. There’s a strong sense of purpose and pride in the work we do, and we are passionate about making a difference by helping older people live safely, independently, and with dignity in their own homes.” To enquire about services or to get involved, please visit the Care and Repair website. Contact: Jeff Adams Company: Care and Repair Carmarthenshire Web Address: https://careandrepair.org. uk/ (follow the link to Care and Repair Carmarthenshire)
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