Britain's most successful Paralympian will be the guest speaker at a conference on social care next Friday.

Dame Tanni Grey Thompson, from Redcar, will speak at the North of the River Conference at The Holiday Inn, Seaton Burn, Northumberland, from 1pm to 4pm.

The event, which is part of a series of conferences, is aimed at service users, social care professionals and carers and has been organised by Skills for Care North East Learning Resource Network.

Dame Tanni said: "Professional care helps people who are on the receiving end to enjoy a better quality of life and experience greater independence.

"The conferences give people who receive care an excellent opportunity to air their views so that future policies and practices for social care continue to reflect their needs and that of a changing world."

Chairman of Skills for Care North East, Mike Lauerman, said: " We are absolutely delighted that Dame Tanni Grey-Thompson agreed to be our guest speaker at this important event. She is an inspiration to us all. Her words of encouragement and determination are uplifting."

He said he hoped those who enable the vulnerable people in society to maintain independence, choice and dignity would have a greater feeling that their job is worthwhile after attending the conference.

For details, call Audrey Hammer on (01642) 345682.