Orbit Care & Repair in Coventry is celebrating after winning the Foundations HIA Award for Excellence in Providing Support and Advice.

Orbit Care & Repair, a home improvement agency (HIA), won the award for its Crisis Support Service which provides help and support to older and vulnerable adults with learning difficulties who own their own home.

The Crisis Support Service has been recognised as a Beacon Project as Orbit Care & Repair was the first voluntary sector service dedicated to providing help to this unique client group.

The Service has also been used by Government ministers and Help the Aged as an example of Best Practice. Following Orbit's success, other Care & Repair agencies, including Weymouth & Dorset, Manchester and Bristol, have now established their own Crisis Support Services.

The success of the Service is not only due to the team's extensive knowledge and commitment to customer care, but to partnerships with other organisations to provide additional support.

Kathie Martin, Orbit Care & Repair Manager (Coventry), says: “Winning the Foundations Award is not only a fantastic achievement for the team, but it also helps us encourage other agencies to provide this type of service to clients that have higher level needs. By providing clients with their own dedicated case worker, we provide the support and help they need to continue living independently in their own home.”

Steve Malone, Director of Foundations, says: “The Excellence in Providing Support and Advice Award recognises innovative approaches thatsupportvulnerable peopleto make effective and sustainable choices about their housing needs.