An action plan to protect tenants and leaseholders from the health risks of asbestos in their homes has been launched.

Lambeth Council has created the plan after residents raised concerns about safety issues surrounding the toxic substance in council housing refurbishment.

The plan will see the development of an asbestos register for some 36,000 council-owned domestic properties, which both tenants and leaseholders will be able to access to check whether homes could have asbestos.

Guidelines for supporting residents affected by works involving the harmful substance have also been drawn up.

In the past, asbestos was in common use in building materials, making it a matter for concern for those living in buildings that may contain asbestos.

The inhalation of asbestos fibers can cause serious illnesses, including lung cancer.