A HELPLINE has been launched for County Durham children who run away from home.

The county council has set up the service, funded by £188,000 from the Government to try to make runaways safe and to show youngsters thinking of leaving home that it is not the only solution to their problems.

Spokesman Steve Burney said: "Children run away from home for all sorts of reasons, and it is difficult to provide one service that will suit every young person.

"This helpline gives children and young people access to a variety of services across a range of agencies to help find solutions for them.

"Children can be assured that we do not automatically take them back to their parents.

"We find out what the problems are and how the various agencies can help before assisting the children to make the decision themselves over whether or not they want to return home.

"Young people can be put on a fast-track with partners on the scheme such as Connexions, education services and health and accommodation advisors.

"If young people decline our offer of services, they can be provided with an emergency 'survival' pack of access to medical attention, phone cards, a mediation service with parents and carers, food and a blanket to see them through the night."

The helpline is on 0800 085 1596.