VULNERABLE tenants being re-housed in north Durham are being given a helping hand to equip their new homes.

Housing provider Derwentside Homes is working with the British Red Cross shop in Stanley to put together Home Starter kits, which include everything from crockery and cutlery to curtains and kettles.

The aim is to help tenants in difficult situations, such as those in need of new homes because of domestic violence, who may have nothing of their own so they feel more settled in their new property.

The idea for the scheme came from Derwentside Homes tenant and British Red Cross volunteer Laurie Hume.

The 56-year-old, who also volunteers at the Stanley food bank, said: “We’re very fortunate at this shop in that we get a lot of donations, particularly of kitchen ware such as crockery and electric items such as toasters.

“I’d got to know the welfare team at Derwentside Homes when they helped me as a tenant, as well as through my work at the food bank, and I saw an opportunity to help tenants who may have had to be rehoused suddenly.

“There was already help available to provide the big things, such as furniture, but nothing for the smaller items, which can add up if buying from new.”

For more information about the scheme, or to donate any unwanted items, contact the British Red Cross shop in Stanley on 01207-284978.