Is your home damp? Damp can cause mould on walls and furniture and make timber window frames rot. Damp housing encourages the growth of mould and mites, and can increase the risk of respiratory illness.

Some damp is caused by condensation. There is a leaflet available that explains how condensation forms and how you can keep it to a minimum, so reducing the risk of dampness and mould growth.

Keep your home free from cold and damp leaflet (pdf document).

Priced publications on condensation and dampness are available from the Building Research Establishment; see www.BREbookshop.com for further details.

If you are a householder who receives an income-related benefit or Disability Living Allowance, or if you are a householder over 60, you may be able to get help under the Warm Front scheme. Please see the Warm Front web site for information on grants available under this scheme.

If you do not fall into any of the above categories you can still receive advice and may be eligible to have loft insulation and/or cavity wall insulation installed at a discounted price. Please contact the Essex Energy Efficiency Advice Centre for details.

If you are a local authority tenant and wish to receive financial help with these works you should approach your local council directly.

If you are elderly, disabled or on a low income, you may be able to get independent advice and practical help in carrying out the work from The Tendring Home Improvement Agency (THIA) they can be contacted on telephone number 01255 814410.

Your local gas or electricity company can give advice about budget schemes like fuel saving stamps which spread the costs of heating.

Some advice will vary from authority to authority, if you do not live in the Tendring district it is advisable to contact your own local authority. To find out who your local authority is, you can check your Council Tax bill or enter your postcode on the DirectGov - the Government information website http://www.direct.gov.uk/.