A DOCTORS' surgery has been recognised for its efforts to cater for youngsters after enlisting the help of local teenagers.

Brandon Lane Surgery, in Durham, recently received an Investing in Children award.

It recognised the efforts of a youth worker employed by Investing in Children, practice staff and a group of teen-agers, who worked together to identify what young people wanted from their local GP surgery.

The group of six teenagers took part in the project for a year, producing a questionnaire asking patients for their views and ideas, and then a list of actions.

It has resulted in several improvements to young people's services, including the introduction of a youth interest noticeboard in the foyer, the development of an information directory, and moves to establish a young person's clinic offering a drop-in facility.

Gillian Clare, practice manager, said staff found working alongside young people positive and rewarding, and they hoped to be able to carry on working with young people in the same way in the future.

Andrew Young, chief executive of the Durham and Chester-le-Street Primary Care Trust, said: "I would like to congratulate the Brandon Lane Surgery on receiving this award. Listening to the needs of young people and the way they wish services to be developed is important."