TEAMS from Sunderland and Gateshead have been shortlisted for the Northern regional finals of the health and social care awards.

One of the Sunderland schemes is aimed at people who have had their voice box removed, and the other to provide better urgent care for people with long-term health conditions.

In Gateshead, the scheme has improved services for children with chronic behavioural problems.

Regional winners will receive £1,000 to spend on developing their service and go forwqard to the national finals in London, in December.