LOCAL residents in private sector housing can look forward to home security equipment as The Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC) has contributed £6000 to a Thurrock Council scheme.

The money will be distributed by Thurrock Council’s well homes project and will be given to people in selected parts of three wards with high crime levels.

The 12 month project has been running for two months. If it is successful, it could be extended.

The contribution from the PCC means the council will purchase and fit a range of home security equipment including timer switches, security locks and lights, in homes where security concerns are identified.

Lindsay Whitehouse, deputy police and crime commissioner for Essex, said: “This is an excellent initiative by Thurrock Council to support some of the more vulnerable members of our communities.

“Helping to improve the physical security of homes should also make people feel safer.

“I’m also delighted at the involvement of local public health services, ensuring that this is a joined up project involving excellent work between partner agencies in both the crime prevention and health promotion spheres.”

The well homes project is aimed at improving the overall health and wellbeing of people living in privately owned or rented homes.

Thurrock council’s housing portfolio holder, Lynn Worrall, said: “You can’t be healthy and happy in your own home if you don’t feel safe and secure there.

“We are grateful for this contribution from the police commissioner. It will make many people feel more secure in their homes and improve neighbourhood safety.

“It is also a tremendous vote of confidence in the good work the well homes team is doing.”

The well homes adviser visits privately-owned or rented homes to discuss how housing conditions affect our health and wellbeing.

The adviser is also encouraging victims of hate crime and domestic violence to report it to the police.

To contact the well homes team or arrange a visit by the adviser call 01277 239 909 or visit www.thurrock.gov.uk/wellhomes.