Extra help to stay in homes

FAMILIES faced with the threat of repossession across Oldham will now be given extra help to keep them in their homes.

Citizen’s Advice will be starting events across the borough aimed at helping struggling homeowners get a grip on their finances, the Government announced.

Ministers say the pressure on families is likely to remain high throughout this year and hope the impartial face-to-face advice in the repossession hotspots will help.

New radio ads and advertising across the borough will also promote the free telephone advice line and special website for people struggling with mortgage payments as part of the campaign targeting 56 areas.

Housing Minister John Healey said: “With the pressure on homeowners set to continue this year, I’m determined that they get the help they need.

“That’s why I’m extending our campaign so families across the country can get the free, impartial advice they need online, on the phone or on the high street.

“It’s why I’m boosting councils’ coffers in the high-risk areas so they can ensure people get the individual, flexible support they may need.

“The comprehensive range of Government help available — and tougher rules on lenders — will mean that repossessions remain the last resort.”

Ministers say more than 330,000 households have had help and advice with their mortgages over the past year and repossessions are running at half the 1992 levels.

Mortgage lenders launched 150 repossession claims against Oldham families — the first stage in taking back a property — in county courts between July and September this year.

The figures do not reveal the actual number of evictions because even after a claim has been made, a person can still settle their debts and save their home and reach an agreement with the borrower.

October to December figures will be published next month.

Government has stepped up help for homeowners during the recession as the number of families struggling continues to rise.

Mortgage lenders now have a duty to inform the local authority as soon as action is taken against any property in the district so council chiefs can ensure people who need help are getting the right support.

Free advice is also available at Oldham court for struggling homeowners.

For more information and impartial advice visit www.direct.gov.uk/mortgagehelp , or call the National Debtline on 0808-808 4000.

To find out when housing advice events will be happening across Oldham contact the local Citizens Advice Bureau.