A HOUSING agency is helping Richmondshire and Hambleton residents increase their home security after receiving a Community Fund grant.

Yorkshire Housing's Swale Home Improvement Agency received £6,000 to help vulnerable residents with home security checks and fit preventative measures such as window locks and door chains.

Grants have also been awarded in Craven, Harrogate, and Selby, and the scheme is targeted people at risk of crime or those who are concerned they may fall victim to burglary.

North Yorkshire police commissioner Julia Mulligan introduced the Community Fund to make money available to local groups groups or individuals involved in community safety projects or schemes.

Mrs Mulligan said: “The Home Improvement Agency do some really valuable work and I am pleased that the funding will help so many vulnerable residents all across North Yorkshire.

"Sometimes the smallest of things can make the greatest of differences and to feel safe in your own home is a feeling that everyone should have.”

The Yorkshire Housing Home Improvement agency helps older or vulnerable people live at home safely by fitting adaptations and offering a handyman service.

Local residents who are concerned that their home maybe at risk from crime can contact the Home Improvement Agency on 0345-366-4401 or visit http://www.yorkshirehousing.co.uk/home-improvement.