A scheme has been launched by Hartlepool Borough Council in a bid to get the best out of its 4,500 workforce.

The authority has teamed up with Hartlepool College of Further Education and the Joint Trade Unions Committee to launch the Together Project.

The scheme is being piloted in the council's neighbourhood services department, where more than 20 learning representatives have volunteered to help pass on basic skills to their colleagues.

The learning representatives have all received training and, once particular needs are identified, staff will attend courses at the College of Further Education.

A survey of 1,800 employees will be conducted to help identify needs.

Councillor Carl Richardson, chairman of the council, said: "This is an excellent scheme which aims to promote basic skills among all employees.

"The council has a very able and skilled workforce and this scheme is all about sharing that knowledge base and encouraging fellow employees to improve their skill levels.

"It not only benefits individual employees but the organisation as a whole."