HOUSING advice was given to residents by Harrow council at an event last week.

Professional housing advisors helped people on an individual basis with information on training, employment, debt and money advice and housing options for a range of residents also on offer.

Resident Diane Grey said: "I am renting locally with my daughter and the place is not suitable for us. I wanted to find out what my options are and if the council can help me at all. When I found out about the information day today, I thought it would be a good chance to get some help and speak to people face-to-face. I think more days like this one would really help people."

Portfolio holder for housing, Councillor Bob Currie said: "We are working hard to ensure that all of our residents, tenants and leaseholders have access to decent accommodation in the borough. We only have a small number of council homes and a growing list of people who need our support so we need to look at new ways of helping our residents."

The event took place at the Civic Centre, Harrow on Tuesday October 18 and is part of the council's drive to help residents during the recession. A leaflet has also been produced about housing changes.

Ricardo Fernandes has been living and working in Harrow for almost two years and said: "I am living with friends but need to find my own place. My hours in work have been cut back so I cant afford much rent. I'm glad I came here today, its a start at least. Its good to have someone to direct you to where you can go for help."

The leaflet, Housing Changes - What do they mean for Harrow?, is available at www.harrow.gov.uk.