A NUMBER of residents in sheltered housing have been burgled, leading to their families to call on the council to install better security.

The concerns were raised about the safety of Lanham’s Court, in Davenants, Pitsea, after several reports of burglary surfaced in the past two weeks.

The site is run by Basildon Council and houses 60 elderly residents.

Jayne Mason’s 88-year-old mother has lived there for 20 years but her family now feel their concerns are not being taken seriously.

Jayne, 50, who also lives in Basildon, said: “They’ve got security measures but some of them don’t work. There are cameras out of action and doors that don’t lock which we have told them about.

“But they say it is still on the residents to make sure their own property is secure which is fair but some of these people are really vulnerable.

“They say they are trying to encourage independent living but surely it shouldn’t be at the risk of their personal safety.

“It’s frightening to think someone is breaking in at night. I have told my mum to just pretend she is still asleep if she hears anything because I would hate to think what could happen to her if she disturbs someone.”

Essex Police confirmed it is investigating a spate of burglaries at the facility. The burglars have taken jewellery and cash.

Debbie Mullholland, 54, said the thought of criminals breaking in at night leaves her in fear for her 78-year-old mother.

She added: “The staff know about it and they held a police meeting where we were just told to make sure windows and doors are locked. The council has said they cannot put up CCTV because of privacy but I think the residents would rather feel safe. They did try my mum’s window and the fear is that someone disturbs them because that is when people could start getting hurt.

“The elderly people have set up a petition to ask for better security.”

Don Morris, chair of the council’s housing committee, said the council is aware and is working with Essex Police.

He added: "Residents have responsibility for ensuring the safety and the security of their own homes.

"The council does not routinely install CCTV following specific incidents and is currently reviewing the criteria to be considered when looking to install new cameras in the future.”