A SECURITY lifeline which helps more than 600 elderly people in the town has been saved.

The Age UK HandyVan service, which helps older people in the area with safety, security, repairs and adaptations in their home will continue to run after Nationwide Building Society stepped in to offer cash.

Legal and General, which has funded the van since 2009, has handed over the mantle to Nationwide as it prepares to move its Swindon-based operations to Cardiff but will continue to fund the project until 2012.

The van visits homes to undertake works including fitting free carbon monoxide detectors, grab rails, door and window locks and smoke alarms.

During its two year reign the van has helped more than 600 older people in Swindon to date.

Lisa Waite, national HandyVan manager at Age UK, said: “The collaboration between Nationwide and Legal and General has enabled us to continue offering this crucial service to older people in Swindon.

“The support will go a long way towards enabling Age UK to help people in later life, to live independently in their own home for as long as possible.”

The agreement between Nationwide and Legal and General means that older people in the area will continue to benefit from this service, despite Legal and General’s impending change in location.

Legal and General will continue to fund the service in Swindon for another year with Nationwide working with Age UK to manage the van and help drive referrals.

Head of corporate responsibility at Nationwide Annette Kerlin said: “Nationwide employees have had the opportunity today to learn more about the work of Age UK and the benefits that the HandyVan can offer our local customers and community.

“I am really pleased that Nationwide Building Society is able to continue the partnership with Age UK and the support of vital services that it provides”.

Graham Precey, from Legal and General added: “I am delighted that we have been able to secure commitment to take over the HandyVan Service. Nationwide, as one of Legal & General’s key strategic partners was the obvious choice for Swindon.

“I would like to thank them for taking on the practical responsibilities.”

For more information about the HandyVan service or to see if you can take advantage of a HandyVan in your area, call 0845 026 1055.