Bid to lift profile of home loans scheme

The government has made another appeal for public sector workers to
apply for loans from its starter home initiative.

Deputy prime minister John Prescott announced a publicity campaign
to attract more applicants before the scheme closes in April next
year.

Only a third of the target of 10,000 key workers have taken up the
offer since the £250 million initiative was launched in
September 2001.

Teachers, police and health workers were the main target
professions, but social workers could also benefit.

A scheme to be administered by the Housing Corporation is planned
for next year to continue the government’s policy to help public
sector workers live in expensive areas.

l Go to www.odpm.gov.uk/housing