SERVICES for deaf people in Darlington are to be improved.

There are plans for several developments in facilities for adults and children with hearing impairments.

Darlington Borough Council's cabinet has identified a need to focus more on helping those with a hearing disability.

Council leader Councillor John Williams said on Tuesday that people needed to remember that deafness was not a disability that is seen.

The council is looking to develop a lip reading service, which is likely to be located at Vane House, in Darlington, where a sensory impairment resource centre has been established.

Funding for the project is being sought from further education and the primary care trust.