CASH grants are available to help disabled and elderly people in north Oxfordshire become energy efficient.

More than £1m is available from Cherwell District Council for work on private homes, and landlords could qualify for grants to install first-time central heating in rented properties.

They can also apply for grants to carry out essential repairs and improvements, and to improve energy efficiency.

Michael Gibbard, the council's executive member for planning and housing, said: "This updated policy will make Cherwell a healthier place to live by improving homes in the private sector.

"Grants are key to helping the council meet its housing strategy targets particularly by helping disabled people, improving private sector housing conditions, and providing decent homes for the vulnerable in the private sector."

Pensioners living in Cherwell can also apply for low-interest home improvement loans.

Loans are available for private homeowners aged over 60 who want to replace roofs, treat damp or install insulation.

Interest rates will be lower than commercial rates and repayments can be delayed until the elderly borrowers are taken into care or die.

Mr Gibbard said: "They will complement the council's current housing grants and will make a real difference to private householders."