Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser
Service helps families with safety and security
A community service for Monklands householders needing additional safety and security has helped nearly 150 families with essential repairs during the pandemic.
Safer Homes, created in October 2012, sees dedicated tradespeople from Mears Group, on behalf of North Lanarkshire Council, perform emergency repairs and install equipment with a “free, unique” initiative that isn’t means-tested.
Since its inception, the service has visited more than 2800 residences and installed over 12,400 personal safety items, including window alarms, door chains and door bars.
And since the start of the pandemic, Safer Homes has supported 137 families in North Lanarkshire with repairs to their homes.
Maggie Burns, customer success manager of Mears Group, said: “The concept of Safer Homes is to help people feel safe in their property.
Some people who reach out to us are domestic abuse survivors or are older members of the community who need additional home security.
“Our work sees us install door viewers, window alarms, personal alarms etc.
“We do this because we have the resources and we care. North Lanarkshire
Council provides the materials and we give our time and skills freely.
“It is not means-tested so no matter your living situation – whether you own your home, rent from the local authority or housing association or rent from a private landlord – Safer Homes is there for you.”
Several other community organisations that have recommended Safer Homes to locals have issued high praise on Mears for the initiative.
Karen Mcfarlane, domestic abuse advocacy worker said: “I have been using Safer Homes for years. The women I work with value the service a great deal.”
Cathie Hegarty, women’s support senior for Monklands Women’s Aid added: “To our service users, Safer Homes is an essential part of making them and their children feel safe in their own homes.
“They have told us the service provided by Mears is first class and those carrying out the work have been professional and put them at ease.”
David Jackson and Laura Scott from the Scottiish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) said: “When carrying out home fire safety visits we may become aware of other safety risks within the family home.
“SFRS can then refer these householders onto Mears Safer Homes for additional safety measures to allow them to feel more secure and safe within their home.”