Union leaders have stepped up their fight against a council scheme which could see tenants being paid to carry out DIY jobs to their homes.

Trade union representatives for Southend's Borough Services Organisation - the workforce which maintains some homes - have branded the radical proposals a "farce" which will leave tenants out of pocket.

Workers believe the scheme, if it gets the go ahead from the council, will mean the thin edge of the wedge for many tenants.

Spokesman Mick Sutton said: "We believe this policy would threaten jobs, risk quality services and increase costs for council taxpayers.

"There is also the question of liability - we believe Southend Council would be liable if a tenant fractures a pipe or sets light to gas while carrying out work.

"This really hasn't been thought through properly."

Workers representatives met earlier this week with Graham Garner, assistant director of technical services at Southend Council, where they expressed their concerns.

They are now awaiting a written response from him.

A spokesman for Southend Council said: "A meeting has now been held with union officials where they were able to discuss their concerns.

"We will now look at the issues raised and make an appropriate response to them."

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