A NORTH-EAST social services department has been shortlisted for a national award for its work with young people.

Darlington Borough Council's child and adolescent mental health service is one of four in the country to be shortlisted for Beacon status, the highest Government accolade for a council service.

The service was set up in 1999 and has since appointed a learning support teacher, educational psychologist and school nurse, to help children with special needs.

Councillor Bill Dixon, cabinet member for social services, said: "The strategy we are developing in Darlington, in partnership with the health services is recognised as one of the best in the country."

The council will find out if it has achieved Beacon status next spring.