Ford Escort hand brake

With your car supported correctley take off both rear wheels and drums, use a screw driver to release the ratchet on the brake shoe. Let the quadrant fully return to its stop, then check the condition of the ratchet - if worn replace.Also check the condition of the rear shoe for wear.

I suggest replacing the rear shoes with new parts from a reputiable supplier (ferodo etc)if you see any sign of wear.

The self adjusting mechanism inside drums on Escorts /Fiestas etc usually pack up after time and it's a case of removing drums and manually adjusting the brakes. You usually find a ridge worn on inside edge of drum which is better removed as it will catch on brake shoes when refitting and stop you getting correct adjustment. You will notice one shoe thinner than other , this is the way they are. If badly worn , you will be able to get replacement from any motor factor or accessory shop .If you have to fit new shoes , you can replace self adjuster ratchet / cam mechanism at the same time if badly worn .Re. suspension arm bush , your just as well replacing complete suspension arm as they are cheap and again can be got from motor factor . Hope this helps.
P.S
After doing what's needed on brakes , you may have to adjust h/brake cable if still no reserve travel .Sometimes adjusting rear brakes is suffice .
Hope this helps .

as both previous guys have said regarding replacement of shoes and bush on suspension arm easier to replace the whole arm as only cost about £15 from motor factors and shoes are £10 there abouts not to complicated to do but do take note of where all the springs and fittings go if you havnt done this sort of thing before