DOZENS of young people will come together today to help shape a plan which aims to safeguard their future.

The event, at the Mayfair Centre, in Seaton Carew, near Hartlepool, is part of the second round of consultation on the Children and Young People's Plan.

The event, from 10.30am to 8pm, will involve workshops and other schemes to find out what is most important to young people to help them succeed and achieve happiness in their lives.

Also attending the event will be a number of people who work with children and young people, including childminders, nursery staff, youth workers and college representatives.

As part of the first phase of consultation, youngsters identified a number of priorities for the plan, including good schools, a settled home life, healthy food, adults who listen and a safe environment.

Adrienne Simcock, Hartlepool Borough Council's director of children's services, said: "This is a very significant plan as it aims to ensure that the needs of all children in Hartlepool up to 19 are met.

"The response so far from the consultation exercises has been very good, and this is yet a further opportunity for people in the town to help influence the plan."

The event is open to the public and further information can be obtained by contacting Ann Breward, at Hartlepool council on (01429) 284337.