FAMILIES are helping new research which will shape childcare in the region.

Sure Start County Durham, managed by Durham County Council, is researching childcare needs, asking about the ease of finding childcare, costs and use of Tax Credits.

"Childcare places across the county have expanded but there is currently a gap in up-to-date research information," said Peter Kiernan for Sure Start County Durham.

"We want to find out if the childcare available fits the needs of families."

"We might discover that, in a particular area, for instance childminders, is the preferred choice and we need to commit more resources to recruitment, training and retention of childminers to meet that need."

He added: "There is a widespread reluctance in childcare to offer late evening, overnight and early morning childcare, which could be pivotal in improving career opportunities for parents with young families."

Anyone wanting more information about the childcare research can telephone 0191-3834491.