How do I fix the hand brake on my Peugeot 405 GLTD?

Want to know how to mend handbrake, first establish if cable snapped etc.....is there an easy way to find out what has happened.....i.e is it snapped or is there a connector that has popped off? Can anyone help?
Is this a common problem?
Can I do it myself on ramps? Or should I seek proffesional help? Where is cheapest place to get replacement if needed?