ADVISORS from Devon Care and Repair and South West Water will be joining West Devon Connect's regular drop-in events for the month of November.

South West Water advisors will answer any queries or concerns about their services, including water and sewerage supplies, accounts, metering, water conservation or general enquiries. There will also be a wide range of literature available, plus the opportunity to take home various freebie items eg, fat traps, plate scrapers and hippos and save-a-flushes — domestic cistern devices both designed to save water each time the toilet is flushed.

Care and repair staff will provide advice and practical help with all aspects of enabling older and vulnerable people to remain independent in their own homes. The agency is taking part in a 'Safe at Home' pilot scheme aimed at preventing risks and accidents, and helping people with free work to reduce hazards identified by a Home Safety Assessment.

The 'Safe at Home' scheme is intended for those individuals and families who are particularly vulnerable due to age, disability or illness and are at risk of falling and/or have difficult financial circumstances and/or have recently been victims of crime. Children at risk of harm are also eligible.

The scheme works on a voucher system, which entitles a client to a Home Safety Assessment and up to two hours of work, plus up to £100 worth of materials, all free. Things to increase safety, security and warmth, for instance fitting a door chain, smoke alarm or grab rails, can be agreed – things which could make all the difference to a vulnerable person's ability to stay in their home.

Care and Repair's West Devon team manager Diane Aspinall said: 'We are really pleased to have been chosen to take part in this pilot scheme, and by joining West Devon Connect's drop in sessions we hope to reach many people who could benefit from it, and our other services.'

Dates and venues: Tuesday November 2 and 16, Hatherleigh Market 9.30am–noon; Friday November 5, The Burrow Café, Exbourne 10am–noon; Saturday November 13, Bere Ferrers Community Market 10am–noon; Friday November 12 and 26, Whiddons Tea Rooms, Chagford 9.30am–noon (SWW only available on the 12th); Friday November 19, Friday Market, Broadwoodkelly Village Hall 10.30am–noon; Tuesday November 23, Horrabridge Village Hall 10am–noon (SWW not available).