TENANTS of a Vale housing association are urged to take advantage of a scheme that helps vulnerable people live independently in their own homes.

Evesham and Pershore Housing Association is continuing to develop its Visitor Liaison Service, which offers benefits that include home visits, benefit advice and assistance with home improvements and security.

Since it was first founded in 2003, the service has helped more than 400 people, many of whom would otherwise have needed to move into sheltered housing schemes.

More than 60 per cent of the association's tenants are aged 60 or over - and with national predictions showing that the number of elderly people will increase by about a quarter by 2020 - the scheme will help meet the expected shortfall in sheltered housing.

Association tenant Noelynne Axe said she relied on the regular visits from her visiting liaison officer Maureen Oliver. "I would be lost if she did not come to see me. She is like a daughter to me. Nothing is too much trouble for her - she always puts me first and is always ready to help.

"Sometimes I feel quite low until Maureen comes round, she always cheers me up. I am really happy with the service and I would definitely recommend it to a friend."

The scheme operates in conjunction with outside agencies, such as social services and a range of charitable organisations.

For information about the visitor liaison scheme, contact Sue Berrecloth at the housing association on 08000 421800.