North-East governmental organisations which believe they provide excellent services have applied for special recognition.
A police force, councils and a transport authority are seeking Beacon Status.
If successful, they will be used to show other public service providers how to improve. A final decision will be made by ministers next April.
North-East organisations which have applied include:
* Darlington Borough Council for benefits administration, crime and disorder partnerships and services for older people.
* Derwentside District Council, County Durham, for crime and disorder partnerships and services for old people.
* Stockton Borough Council for crime and disorder partnerships and early years and childcare.
* Sedgefield Borough Council for crime and disorder partnerships and services for old people.
* Durham Constabulary for crime and disorder partnerships.
* Easington District Council for services for old people.
* Middlesbrough Council for early years and childcare and crime and disorder partnerships.
* Durham City Council for services to old people.
* Durham County Council for services to old people and crime and disorder partnerships.
* Tyne and Wear Passenger Transport Authority for public transport provision.
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