Angus Council is set to develop a new scheme to help house owners and private tenants carrying out work on their homes, by providing advice, information and practical assistance.

The new arrangement will replace the grants scheme currently in existence.

The focus of the new scheme will be on meeting the assessed needs of individuals to help them lead independent lives. This could involve grant assistance, or advice on loans or equity release.

All Scottish local authorities are required to develop a scheme of assistance for householders, in line with requirements of the Housing (Scotland) Act 2006.

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Convener of Neighbourhood Services Jim Millar said: "We hope that this new policy will be of benefit to householders in Angus who require help and advice on repairing or adapting their homes. As a council, we are keen to enable people to remain in their own homes and communities wherever possible."

The committee authorised the drafting of a scheme of assistance for Angus.

The committee also agreed the council's response to the National Review of Care and Repair, a scheme to provide a range of property-based services to support older people and disabled home owners, as well as tenants of private landlords.

Councillor Millar said: "Angus Care and Repair Service has provided a significant contribution to helping people with small repairs, choosing reliable tradesmen and overseeing work. We will continue to work closely with the service to provide help within the community to those who need it most."

(GK/KMcA)