More help for hard-pressed homeowners says housing minister

With a local push in 86 repossession "hotspot areas", including Rotherham, and an extra £2.5million funding, the Wentworth MP is assuring people that they will get the help they need to avoid losing their homes.

The announcement comes just a month after Mr Healey said on a radio show that for some people, “having their home repossessed could be the best option”, as households struggled to keep up with mortgage repayments.

Mr Healey said this week: “Cutting help now would put an end to these special efforts and put more families at risk of repossession.  

“I am extending the Government's campaign so that people know they can get free impartial and practical advice, both online or over the phone.”

New figures from the Financial Services Authority show there were over 11,000 repossessions during the last three months—down 15 per cent on last year and 11 per cent fewer than the same period in 2008, taking the total for the year to 54,055.  

The Council of Mortgage Lenders (CML) have said Government help, lower interest rates and greater lender tolerance and understanding were reasons why repossessions were running at half the rate of that seen during the last recession.  

Mr Healey said: "With the pressure on homeowners set to remain throughout 2010, we must keep the Government support in place.

“More than 330,000 homeowners have received help and advice with their mortgage in the last year alone”, Mr Healey added.

"I would urge anyone facing money worries not to bury their head in the sand, but to go to our repossessions help website or call the national debtline to get help in keeping their home."

Concerned homeowners can call the national debtline free on 0808 808 4000 or find online help and support at www.direct.gov.uk/mortgagehelp.