DRUG users committing crime to feed their habit are to be provided with help in a new initiative on Wearside.

The aim of the integrated Sunderland Court and Arrest Referral Scheme is to cut crime by targeting drug users committing thefts to get cash.

Experience has shown that some drug users can need more than £400 a week and are financing their habit by prolific theft - often going out to steal several times a day.

Referral workers will be on duty at police stations in the Sunderland City, Sunderland West and Washington area commands, and the city's magistrates' courts.

Probation service divisional director Hanna Knotek said: "The aim is to offer help at each stage - first when people are arrested and in police stations, then when they are at court.

"People who refuse help at police stations might well change their minds by the time they get to court, after talking with family or friends."

Referral staff will be employed by Turning Point, which has wide experience in dealing with addiction problems.

Turning Point coordinator Mal Maclean said: "The experience of other schemes operating in Northumberland has shown a genuine commitment from the agencies involved to tackle drug-related crimes in a comprehensive and constructive manner."