MORE than 2,300 people were at risk of losing their homes in Wiltshire last year, according to the latest figures.

Startling data released by housing charity Shelter shows one in every 190 households (1,020) in Wiltshire was threatened with eviction or repossession last year.

And the number of people visiting the Shelter website looking for advice on repossession and eviction topped 360,000.

Nadeem Khan, helpline adviser for Shelter, said: “We’re hearing from thousands of people who have suffered in silence while they struggle to keep up with their rent or mortgage, and come to us in desperation when the court papers finally land on their doormat.

“It’s natural to feel helpless in the face of mounting bills, but getting expert advice as soon as you start having trouble with housing payments can really help you see the light at the end of the tunnel, and keep the threat of losing your home at bay.”

There was one repossession claim for every 375 mortgaged homes in Wiltshire last year, and one eviction claim for every 73 rented properties.

Alison Mohammed, Shelter’s director of services, said: “These staggering figures show just how many people are fighting to keep their families in their homes, after dealing with the double blow of welfare cuts and a drastic shortage of affordable housing.

“We’re doing everything we can to give advice and support to anyone who faces losing the roof over their heads, but the government must also play its part by putting a stop to further cuts to the safety net which helps ordinary families stay in their homes.”

The figures are based on the total number of possession claims issued in county courts between April 1, 2014 and March 31 this year, compared with the number of households in the area according to the 2011 census.

Possession claims are the first stage in a court process which can end with the loss of a home.