Shelter warns more than 1,200 householders in Kirklees are at risk losing their home

The stark warning came from housing charity Shelter which revealed one in 137 households in the district are under threat.

Kirklees recorded 1,289 mortgage and landlord possession claims in 2013/14, with more than 17,000 homes across Yorkshire and the Humber at risk of eviction or repossession.

The charity also claimed that despite the beginnings of economic recovery, a growing numbers of families are still set to struggle in the future.

It predicted the number of families already struggling month to month with their housing costs and interest rates is set to rise.

The research is based on data recorded by the Ministry of Justice over the last financial year.

It revealed how many homeowners and private or social renters have received a possession notice.

Helpline Adviser for Shelter Liz Clare said: “It is natural to hope mounting bills and arrears will go away, but the best thing to do is get expert advice straight away.

“People are hearing that the economy is recovering, but we’re seeing the reality that many families across the country are still battling to keep their heads above water and keep their homes.”

Contact Shelter on 0808 800 4444 or visit www.shelter.org.uk/advice.