Loose Newel

[Lodger John]

At my son's house over new year, I noticed the newel post (I think that's what it's called) at the top of the stairs was slightly loos. It rocks from side to side by about 10mm.
I looked downstairs at the newel drop (again, I think) and observed some plaster coming off the wall.
Obviously, the thing needs to be tightened or re-secured in some way. Is that something he or I can readily do, or do we need a builder?
I have no idea how the newel is secured, or where, but, if it is a simple fix, we are both reasonably practical. I can't even look at mine, since I live in a bungalow!
Advice, please.

John

 

[Tigercubrider]

Just lift the floor on the landing next to the newel.
Some screws may have become worn and either need tightening or have worn the wood away
Just bunging in a couple of new ones may do it

 

[Lodger John]

Thanks.
I’ll get him to have a look.