TWO children's homes are set to open in the region by the end of the year to provide a safe environment for youngsters with disorders.

Young Foundations, a Castlebeck group company, has spent almost £1m on acquiring and redeveloping two properties in Darlington and Crook, County Durham.

Staff, including trained nurses, teachers and social workers, have already been employed to work in the homes, which will each provide a family environment for children aged between 12 and 17 from across the North-East.

The homes will not be for young offenders or children with a history of alcohol and drug abuse, but for those with mental health problems, autistic disorders and behavioural problems.

Castlebeck chief executive David Cole said: "These young people may now be in foster or residential care, but are finding that it is not the right environment.

"We want to provide a safe place for them, somewhere where they can receive professional help and support."

The first home to open, in September, will be in the Denes area of Darlington. The property cost £400,000 and is undergoing a £100,000 refurbishment.

The home will house five youngsters at a time, who will stay an average of six months.

Mr Cole said: "The children's progress will be monitored throughout their stay and beyond, using statutory assessments.

"During the term time, the children will be educated and residential workers will provide emotional support."

Both homes will be registered with the North-East Regional Commissioning Group and subject to inspections by the Commission for Social Care and Inspection.

Barbara Thompson, Young Foundations' director of services for young people, said: "It is about giving young people a chance to develop in a positive, safe and structured environment. We then hope they are able to return to family life."

Darlington Borough Council said planning officials were talking to Young Foundations about getting the classification of use of the development, although no application has been submitted yet.