CHANGES have been introduced to Hartlepool Borough Council's telephone system to make it more accessible.

From today (Wednesday, July 15) people can direct call allowing them to get straight through to the right person.

Every year the council's switchboard receives over 150,000 telephone calls - half of which are for five key services.

The new services and numbers to ring are: Housing Benefits – 01429 284188; Council Tax – 01429 284277; Refuse Collection & Recycling – 01429 523333; Child & Adults First Contact Support – 01429 284284; Housing Services – 01429 523336.

There is also an automated system for the main switchboard number (01429 266522) to link callers to the various service options.

Andrew Atkin, Assistant Chief Executive, said: “If we can encourage people to ring our direct numbers, it will mean that they are able to speak to someone much quicker.”

Further details of other direct number can be found in the latest edition of Hartbeat, the council’s community magazine.