Housing Minister John Healey has launched a new national campaign to help struggling homeowners take control of their finances and make the most of the support available for them to avoid repossessions and stay in their homes.

A series of press, online and billboard advertisements will highlight the measures the Government has put in place at every stage for homeowners to avoid repossession. Over 300,000 people have received help and advice in paying their mortgage since April 2008.

The advertisements will point people to an advice line and a new website illustrating the practical steps they can take to resolve their mortgage repayment worries, as well as contacts for the wide range of support available.

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Mr Healey said: "When homeowners are under pressure and feel their finances are spiralling out of control, the worst thing they can do is bury their heads in the sand. I want them to know that sensible, impartial advice is available online or over the phone so they are able to arm themselves with the facts and take control.

"In most cases where people seek help they are able to keep their home, so we have made sure a range of support is available to them - whether free debt advice or help with interest payments, a request for lenders to show greater tolerance and understanding to those in arrears, on-the-day legal advice for those facing court hearings or, for the most vulnerable households, the Mortgage Rescue Scheme.

"The action we've taken means we've seen recent drops in the numbers of repossessions, but there's no room for complacency. The message of today's campaign is clear: it's your home - let's keep it that way. The adverts will appear across the country, and particularly in those 22 most at risk, to reassure people that they are not alone, and that help is out there at every step of the way."

(CD/GK)