Home Safety

The living room or lounge is a place to relax, but loose rugs, trailing wires or low furniture can all raise your risk of tripping or falling.

This page helps you make your living space safer and easier to move around. From seating height to furniture layout, small changes can make a big difference to comfort and confidence at home.

Check Your Seating

• Make sure your chair is at a suitable height. If it's too low or too soft, it may be harder to stand up safely.
• If another chair in your home is better suited, consider swapping it into your living space.
• Avoid chairs with wheels or casters, as these can move unexpectedly when you're sitting down or getting up.
• Chair risers or extra cushions can help, but only if they're stable and don’t slip.

Reduce Clutter and Hazards

• Keep floors clear of books, shoes, bags or other items that could cause a trip.
• Tuck away wires and cords from lamps or chargers — use clips or tape to keep them close to the wall.
• Avoid overloading sockets or using long extension cables where you walk.

Be Mindful of Rugs and Flooring

• Remove any loose mats or rugs that could curl or slide.
• If you choose to keep a rug, use non-slip backing or rug grips to hold it securely in place.
• Watch for worn carpet edges or transitions between rooms that may be uneven or raised.

Think About Room Layout

• Arrange furniture to create clear, wide walkways — especially between frequently used areas.
• If you use a walking aid, make sure there's enough room to use it without bumping into furniture.
• Keep items you use often, like the TV remote, reading glasses or phone, within easy reach.

Calling for Assistance

If you live alone, consider keeping a phone, personal alarm or alert system close to where you sit. A wristband or pendant alarm means you can call for help if you need it, without having to reach across the room.

Find Support

Please find below useful links, relevant resources and contact information. All links open in a new window and may include links to websites, videos, and PDF files for downloading and printing. 

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Handyperson Service

Handypersons Service is a discounted handyperson service available (subject to eligibility) to help with small DIY jobs around your home.
Contact: 0191 5205552 (this line is open 7 days a week from 8.30am – 5.00pm 

Personal Alarms

Please visit the Home Safety Help and Contacts section for more information. 

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Helpful Links 

Preventing falls in your home: a room-by-room guide - RoSPA (video)
Preventing falls in your home: a guide to safety aids - RoSPA (video)

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More on this website

Visit our Information and Advice section
Visit our Staying Active section
Visit our Home Safety section
Visit our Help and Contacts section 
Start your online Self-Assessment

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More on this website

Visit our Information and Advice section
Visit our Staying Active section
Visit our Home Safety section
Visit our Help and Contacts section 
Start your online Self-Assessment

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