VULNERABLE homeowners across Dudley borough are being given a helping hand to keep their homes heated.

Residents with long-term medical conditions that could be made worse by cold weather are being encouraged to seek help from the npower Health Through Warmth scheme.

The scheme helps people pay for the installation or repair of crucial heating measures.

Scheme manager, Elaine Midwinter, said: "People living with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions are particularly at risk from cold living conditions.

"Warmth plays a vital role in health and wellbeing, which is why we’re encouraging Dudley residents to get in touch throughout the year if their heating has broken down to see if we can be of help."

People do not have to be, or become an npower customer to benefit.

For more information visit www.healththroughwarmth.com.