AN agency is to be formed to help vulnerable residents in north Durham.

Chester-le-Street District Council is to create a Home Improvement Agency Service with Durham City Council.

The one-stop shop would help people apply for home improvement grants, housing benefits, improve energy efficiency and home safety and arrange transport to hospital.

The service will cost £121,500 to run this year and £108,000 next year and be funded by a range of agencies.

Money will come from both councils, the local primary care trust, the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister and Durham County Council.