PEOPLE on benefits or low incomes could soon find it easier to find somewhere to live in Purbeck.

The district council is bringing in various housing grants that it hopes will provide more affordable rented accommodation in the area and help out those already housed with maintenance costs and energy efficiency.

The authority says high house prices and a small number of properties for rent means that many locals cannot afford to make Purbeck their home.

Now, in a bid to create more rented properties, it is offering incentives to landlords who own a home that has been empty for six months and needs some refurbishment. If they let to tenants on the council's housing register, they could be rewarded with an Empty Homes Grant of up to £10,000.

Cllr Paul Johns, the council's built environment spokesman, said: "Affordable housing and fuel poverty are serious issues for some of our local residents.

"I urge people on low incomes and benefits to contact the council to find out what grants they may be entitled to."

People aged over 60 receiving an income-based benefit will be able to apply for up to £1,000 to help with the cost of minor works around their home.

Anyone aged over 18 who is receiving income benefits can ask for a Fuel Poverty Grant of up to £8,000. Also available is the equity Mortgage Loan Scheme, which makes grants of up to £10,000 for home improvements.

For details on any of the grants, call the council's housing team on 01929 557311.