SOCIAL workers will be given help with the cost of finding themselves a home in Swindon under new council rules.

They are being added to Swindon Council's list of key workers, which already includes teachers, nurses and those working in the fire, ambulance and police service.

The move means social workers, who may struggle to afford a home on their wages, will find it easier to get on to the council's housing list.

Coun David Renard, cabinet member for housing, pictured, said the decision was one way the council was trying to improve its zero-rated social services department.

"There has been a problem recruiting and retaining social workers in Swindon," he said.

"This was a way of encouraging social workers to come to us in the first place and to stay with us here in Swindon.

"We do need social workers and Swindon social services, as everybody knows, is in need of improvement.

"This is one of the ways we are going about addressing the problem."