TEN new teams are being set up to support children, young people and their families across County Durham.

Led by social workers, the Families First teams will include family support workers and other specialist staff who will work together from community hubs which also accommodate the One Point Service.

They are being set up by Durham County Council to help give children and young people the best chances in life.

Carole Payne, head of children’s services, said: “We want all children to be happy, healthy and achieve their full potential so we’ve been looking at how we can do things differently to best support families in the county.

“The new Families First teams will mean that workers are based in the community and will have more time to build strong, professional relationships with children, young people and families.

“They will also have knowledge of local organisations that may be able to provide additional help and support if needed.”

Teams in the south of County Durham - Bishop Auckland, Crook, Ferryhill and Newton Aycliffe - were officially launched on Wednesday, March 23.

They are already up-and-running in Peterlee, Seaham and Chester-le-Street.

The remaining three teams will be officially launched in April.

People can contact their local Families First team on 0300-026-7979.