A Referral system that ensures vulnerable people in Basingstoke take adequate measures to prevent fires in their homes has been highly commended by a national body.

A joint project between Hampshire Primary Care Trust (PCT) and Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service (HFRS) was recognised at the prestigious annual Nursing Times Awards.

NHS staff provide the fire service with referrals for their home fire safety visits, which means people who otherwise may not be aware of such a scheme get smoke detectors installed for free and help with putting together an emergency escape plan.

The project was the runner-up in the awards' section promoting social inclusion/reducing inequalities.

PCT staff now provide Basingstoke fire station with 10 per cent of their home fire safety visit referrals since the project began nearly two years ago.

Jaki Metcalfe, the PCT's clinical standards and professional practice lead, said: "Our rapid response team in the Basingstoke area piloted the project, and it is due to their commitment and enthusiasm that this has been so successful."