Housework

If you are looking for some help with housework, here are some tips to keep on top of things and to keep you safe.

• Do not climb on chairs or overstretch as this can be dangerous and could result in you falling
• Do the jobs you find easiest on a regular basis and leave other jobs to every few weeks
• Take your time and have lots of breaks
• Keep your home organised and tidy as you go - this will cut down on how much housework you have to do
• Make sure that the room you are working in doesn't get too hot or cold
• Use lightweight, long handled brooms and dusters, instead of stretching

Equipment

Think about your electric appliances such as washing machines, fridges and vacuum cleaners.

• Is your washing machine, fridge etc. at the right height for you? If not, can it be moved, perhaps on top of work surfaces? Helping Hands minor repair service may be able to do this for you. You can telephone them on 0161 793 9419.
• New appliances tend to be light weight and often save you money on your electricity too. Look at getting new electrical equipment to help you, such as lightweight or self-drive vacuum cleaners. You can find these on the high street and in catalogues.

There are plenty of products which can make cleaning easier for you. Many of these are available on the high street, in catalogues and in specialist mobility and equipment shops. Some of the most popular are:

• Helping hand grabbers
• Long handled dustpans and brooms 
• Trolleys

Paying someone to do your housework

If you can't manage the housework in this way, there are companies that will provide help with housework and shopping. You can find a list of some companies at the bottom of this page. This is not a comprehensive list and does not mean that we recommend these companies.

You can also look in Yellow Pages and other phone directories (see "Cleaning Services - Domestic", "Carpet and Upholstery Cleaners", "Ironing and Laundry Services" or "Window Cleaners").

One of the best places to search is on the internet. All the city's libraries have internet access. Start by typing in 'domestic cleaning' or 'ironing' and your postcode.

Make sure the companies you select are reputable. If you are unsure contact the Citizens Advice Bureau. You can also read our advice about choosing a service.

You could also contact any registered home care organisation and ask them if they provide a shopping and cleaning service.

Key safes and fitting

A key safe is a secure metal box which can be secured next to your door. A single copy of your key/s are placed inside but they can only be retrieved by someone who knows the correct code to open the box. This means that if you get into difficulties in your home then someone will always be able to get in and help.

It is up to you who you give the code to and you can change the code as often as you like. Units can be wall-mounted, have a locking shackle or be attached to the top of a door and kept in place by closing the door.

Local companies that can provide key safes and fit them are:

• Helping Hands
• Age Concern
  • Telephone: 0161 788 7300
  • Email: administrator@ageconcernsalford.org.uk
• Irlam DIY

This list is not a recommendation by Salford City Council nor does it guarantee the quality of service. You can contact the companies you are interested in and find out what services they can offer and how much they will charge.

Who to contact

Name

Adult Social Care Contact Team

Address

Salford Civic Centre
Chorley Road
Swinton
Salford
M27 5AW
Map to this location

Telephone

0161 909 6517

Email

social.services@salford.gov.uk

Minicom

0161 909 6527

Additional information

Text: 07970 134894

This page was last updated on 23 January 2012