AN EAST Durham communications firm is sharing its profits with schools and community groups.

Powerdial Systems, based in Seaham, is sponsoring the Community Commitment Project (CCP).

The company, working with BT to provide cost effective communications systems to organisations in the area, will contribute a percentage of its spending on both hardware and call costs to needy organisations.

Paul Farn, sales director at Powerdial, said: "As an East Durham business we have a real passion for this area and want to do what we can to help the local community access the technology they need.

"Of course we want to generate more business for ourselves, but we want the East Durham community to benefit also."

The firm is also committed to donating ten per cent of hardware sales to the project.

East Durham business broker David Robinson, who is organising the launch of the scheme, said: "This is a fantastic opportunity for local businesses and public sector organisations to give much-needed help to schools and community groups in the area.

"With very little effort, a real difference can be made. It's a win-win situation. Not only is a local company benefiting from generating extra business for themselves, but half of the commission they earn on new business for BT services will be deposited into the fund on a regular basis.

"This will provide continuous sustainable income for the project."

The scheme will be launched at Shotton Hall conference centre, Peterlee, County Durham, on Tuesday.