New push for starter home scheme as deadline nears

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 new publicity
campaign designed to attract more applicants before the scheme
closes in April next year.

Only a third of the target of 10,000 key workers have actually
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 new scheme to be administered by the Housing Corporation is
planned next year to continue the government’s plan to help
public sector workers live in expensive areas.

For more information see www.odpm.gov.uk/housing