If your handbrake is ineffective, it's likely due to one of these reasons, and requires professional attention:
* Worn brake shoes: The brake shoes in the rear drums are worn down and need replacing. This is the most common reason.
* Worn or stretched cable: The handbrake cable itself might be stretched or frayed, reducing its effectiveness. This needs replacement.
* Internal mechanism issues: There might be a problem within the rear drum brake mechanism itself, such as a seized adjuster or damaged components.
* Low brake fluid: While less likely to directly impact handbrake effectiveness, low brake fluid can indicate a leak somewhere in the braking system, which should be addressed immediately.
Instead of trying to adjust it yourself (which is likely impossible and could cause further damage), take your P-reg Ford Fiesta to a qualified mechanic or garage. They have the tools and expertise to diagnose the problem correctly and perform the necessary repairs, whether it's replacing brake shoes, cables, or addressing other issues. Attempting DIY repairs on brakes can be dangerous.