USERS of health and social care in Darlington can come together with the providers of such services for a special Christmas event next week.

The User Involvement Partnership's Networks Christmas Event 2001 takes place at Darlington College of Technology on Thursday, December 13, from 11am to 3pm.

Members of the public are invited to attend the free event to meet people in similar situations, listen to live music, enjoy a Christmas quiz and have a buffet lunch.

The day will include presentations by members of the Action Network, and guest speaker Carol Hayden, from the University of Warwick, who will be talking about initiatives in which people have become involved in their communities, using examples from the region.

Car parking spaces are available and can be booked, and if anybody would like lunch, they should book for that, as well.

Display stands will include Welfare to Work and alternative therapies.

Anybody who would like to book lunch, or book a parking space, should call (01325) 254662.