Homestay Agency Manager - Andy Birkett
Telephone 01227 862580
email:  homestay@canterbury.gov.uk

Homestay is Canterbury City Council's Home Improvement Agency and is in place to provide advice and support for the elderly, disabled or people on low incomes.

• Are you an owner-occupier or private tenant ?
• Are you over sixty years of age ?
• Do you, any of your children or any people living with you have a disability ?
• Do you require any disabled adaptations to your home?
• Do you need help with repairs or maintenance to your home ?
• Do you need advice on energy efficiency and home security ?
• Are you looking for a grant for heating and insulation or a renewable energy source?

Homestay also offer central heating and replacement boiler installations through their Coldbusters scheme provided applicants qualify by receiving a means tested or disablilty benefit.

Repairs and maintenance

If you are on a low income or receive a means tested or disability benefit then Homestay may be able to help with some repairs and maintenance in the form of a repayable loan. Some of the work we cover includes:

• Damp treatment and repair
• Replacement windows and doors
• Roof repairs
• Renewing old electrical installations

We regret, Homestay are not able to offer any assistance for general day to day repairs, decorating or gardening.

More information on repairs and maintenance.

Adaptations for disabled people

People's needs are the most important factor in the adaptation process. The purpose of any adaptation is to restore independence, confidence and dignity to individuals whose environment has disabled them.

From installing grab rails to flush floor shower rooms and home extensions, Homestay may be able to assist. The majority of disabled adaptations and alterations we carry out are in the form of a disabled facilities grant and vary depending on each individuals circumstances.

More infomation on adaptations for disabled people.

Home security

For any additional security measures to your home, Homestay refer people to Homesafe, a free service provided by Kent County Council in partnership with "in touch" support and Kent County Council Occupational Therapy Services.

Homesafe operates across Kent and they aim to help people feel safe and secure in their own homes by carrying out security works and minor aids and adaptations.

Homesafe can help with the following:-

• Grab Rails
• Chair / Bed / Sofa Raisers
• Safety Advice
• Window Locks
• Smoke Alarms
• Door Locks and Bolts
• Low Energy Lightbulbs
• Door Viewers and Safety Chains
• Night Latches

Homesafe can be contacted on 08458 247 247 or visit the Homesafe website.

Energy efficiency

Homestay offer advice on energy efficiency as well as providing grants for renewable energy sources.

More information on energy efficiency as well as our Coldbuster grants for heating and insulation.

Homestay's aims and objectives

The Homestay Agency aims to be:

• Professional
• Courteous
• Consistent whilst advising clients about the options available
• Prompt (we will return phone calls within 1 working day and we will endevour to keep any appointments)
• Practical
• Flexible

Contact details

If you would like further information on how the Homestay Agency may be able to help you, please contact: