SWINDON residents struggling to pay their mortgages will be offered a new year helping hand by the Government.

The town is one of the repossession “hotspots” that will be targeted with a series of events run by the Government and Citizens Advice.

The sessions will give families advice on where they can seek help and will include representatives from the Government and agencies such as the homeless charity Shelter.

The latest figures for repossessions in Swindon showed 115 possession orders were made by county courts against home owners in the three months to the end of September. The figure was, however, down 10 per cent on the same figure in 2008.

Announcing the campaign in an address on YouTube, housing minister John Healey said: “Many families will have money worries after Christmas and when they are under pressure with their finances the worst thing they can do is put off the problem.

“I want homeowners to know there’s free help with their mortgage, by phone, website and local money advice agencies. We’re running a series of local events in 56 repossession hotspots so face to face help is also on hand where it is most needed.

“I’m also making sure we continue our special help in court. Even at the eleventh hour when families are in court we’re able to stop four out of five repossessions. I urge people to make the most of the help available. The earlier people act, the more options they have and the better chance they have of safeguarding their home.”

Shelter’s Director of Policy and Campaigns Kay Boycott said: “Both Government and lenders have increased the options available for struggling homeowners, and getting advice early can play a vital role in helping people keep their homes.

“Thousands of homeowners will be starting the new year with the threat of repossession hanging over them. The first step is to call a dedicated helpline such as Shelter's on 0300 3300 515.”

To find more information and advice go www.direct.gov.uk/ mortgagehelp or call the helpline on 0808 808 4000.