A SCHEME providing temporary housing for the homeless has been extended.

Richmondshire District Council is to continue running its private sector lease scheme next month.

Under the initiative, homeless families with children are housed in empty properties belonging to private landlords, instead of in bed-and-breakfast or hostel accommodation.

Councillor Richard Dunn said: "This scheme is working exceptionally well and provides an invaluable service.

"It allows homeless families to live in suitable accommodation as opposed to bed-and-breakfast facilities, which are far from ideal.

"All those involved, both residents and landlords, are very positive about the scheme."

Families occupying the homes pay rent to a housing association, which then pays the landlord. Financial support is offered to the families through housing benefit.

There are four properties available under the scheme, with a further two houses to be introduced next month.

The initiative was created by the council in April in response to the Homelessness Act 2002, which required local authorities to review their services and reduce the number of families with children who were reliant on temporary bed and breakfast accommodation.