THE Government has set aside £4.5million to help hard-up south Essex householders keep warm and save energy in their homes.

Residents in Castle Point, Basildon, Southend, Thurrock and Rochford should soon be able to apply for a share of the money to insulate their homes and improve heating systems from the Warm Front scheme.

Ministers still have to give either scheme final approval, but if it goes ahead, funds will also be available to improve fire safety and carry out minor repairs to homes.

The Warm Front scheme approves grants of as much as £2,700 and is open to tenants and homeowners who claim income or disability-related benefit or tax credit.

Wendy Goodwin, Castle Point councillor responsible for housing, said: “Grants from organisations like Warm Front are a fantastic boost to the community and even more people will benefit this year. These extended grants can help reduce fuel bills at this difficult time, while also protecting the environment by ensuring energy is used as efficiently as possible.”

Warm Front can be contacted on 0800 316 2814 Residents who do not qualify for Warm Front help can find out about other ways to cut heating costs, by contacting the Essex Energy Efficiency Advice Centre, on 0800 512012.