PEOPLE in Wiltshire are being encouraged to find out more about the support available to help them live in safer and healthier homes.

Warm & Safe Wiltshire is a project delivered jointly by Wiltshire Council and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service to help residents improve energy efficiency in their homes.

The service can inform people about the possible benefits they may be entitled to as well as providing energy saving advice, advice on limiting the negative impact on health that a poorly heated home can cause, fuel debt advice and more.

Maggie Rae, corporate director for Wiltshire Council said: "Making a home warm and safe, particularly for the vulnerable, can reduce the risk of falls and illnesses and help people avoid having to go to hospital.

"The Warm & Safe project provides expert advice and guidance so I would recommend people give them a call and see what support is available."

Keith Humphries, Wiltshire Council cabinet member for public health said: "Sometimes just taking some simple steps, such as loft insulation, can make a big difference to not only someone's health but their bank balance too.

"If people feel they or someone they know could benefit from the project then I'd recommend they give the team a call and find out more."

Station Manager Damien Bence, from Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service's community safety department, said: "There are real fire risks associated with many of the ways that people stay warm, such as open fires, portable heaters and electric blankets.

"Improving how you heat your home can also make it safer from fire, which is why we support this initiative."

If anyone would like more information about the project they should call 0300 003 4575.