Garden and getting in and out of the house

Navigating the outdoor areas around your home, including paths, steps and the garden, requires attention to safety.

Are paths clear of leaves and overgrown plants?

Keeping your garden tidy and free of obstacles will make it safer

Are your paving stones free of moss and algae?

Moss and algae can become slippery when wet; prune over hanging plants and branches to improve light and air circulation. You can buy products to remove algae or ask someone to remove it with a pressure washer

Do you have any uneven or broken paving slabs?

Ask someone to replace or straighten them up

Are your flower/vegetable beds at ground level (rather than in containers or raised beds)?

Try not to spend too long in one position and take care when standing up from a bent over position 

Try to alternate activities between seated ones and standing ones

Consider container gardening or raised beds

Do you have high step(s) to get in and out of the property?

You may benefit from an additional step and / or grab rails

Remember to use your walking aid (if you use one) outdoors as well.

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For handrails, grab rails, minor adaptations to your home etc:

Handyperson and Adaptations Team , Redcar and Cleveland, Telephone: 01287 612 480

https://www.redcar-cleveland.gov.uk/resident/adult-children-health/adult-care/care-and-support/Pages/Handyperson-and-Adaptation-Team.aspx

Staying Put Agency, Middlesbrough, Telephone: 01642 729 524

https://www.middlesbrough.gov.uk/planning-and-housing/staying-put-agency

For further assessment if you are struggling to manage around your home:

Social Services, Redcar and Cleveland, Telephone: 01642 065 070

Social Services, Middlesbrough, Telephone: 01642 065 070

Or:

Contact your GP surgery and ask to be referred for assessment for rehabilitation.

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