Social housing firm’s fall prevention project hailed a success

A Midlands-based housing association has reported 69 per cent fewer falls thanks to its innovative new measures to prevent accidents in the home.

Trent & Dove’s home safety project pilot, developed to protect its older and vulnerable residents, is being hailed as good practice by national housing bosses at the National Housing Federation.

As a result, the project is being rolled out nationally by the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) which has developed a toolkit combining staff training, home safety checks and partnership working to address fall risks and prevent falls suffered by participants.

A total of 91 per cent of participants in the project say they feel safer at home, and many benefit from additional support, which often improves independence and customer satisfaction.

During the assessment, housing professionals identify fall risks and source support from tenancy sustainment, the adaptations team, or external partners.

Trent & Dove chief executive Ursula Bennion (pictured) said: "Ensuring our residents feel safe and supported in their homes is at the heart of what we do.

“The success of our fall prevention pilot shows the real impact that proactive, preventative measures can have on people’s lives.

“By working closely with our residents and partners, we’re not only reducing the risk of falls but also helping to improve confidence and independence.

“We’re incredibly proud that this model is being recognised nationally, and we look forward to seeing it make a difference to even more people."

Visiting residents at home allows housing professionals an insight into the individual vulnerabilities, advising residents about adjustments beyond fall prevention, including additional vulnerabilities they want to tell the landlord.

Trent & Dove’s health and safety advisor Lauren Knight conducts the visits and said: “Implementing the fall prevention toolkit has been a great way to connect with our customers.

“All the visits conducted have been well received and positive. We have been able to advise our residents about potential risks inside the home and those they carry with them.

“The visits also provide a further opportunity to look at any changes in resident need or property condition, which we can advise on or address in-house if necessary.”

The toolkit is a useful resource for social landlords to respond to serious trip hazards and as they work to meet the expectations of the Housing Ombudsman and the forthcoming requirements of Awaab’s Law.