YOUNG carers from County Durham have won a national award for their work on domestic violence.

Earlier this year, youngsters from Developing Initiatives Supporting Communities (Disc) Young Carers, a support service for young people who care for a loved one, received a Shrievalty Award from the then county High Sheriff, Simon Still

He has entered them in the National Crimebeat Awards run by the Shrievalty Association and six of the teenagers will receive the award at a ceremony in London next month

They formed an interest group that examines the roles of the victims and perpetrators of domestic violence, and finds out what support is available to them. They have also given a presentation to Disc trustees on the impact domestic violence has on children.

The group also looks at how the county's domestic violence service is run and has organised anger management workshops.

Specialist worker Julie Dempsey. said: "Disc young carers domestic violence interest group has been in existence for over two years now and the young people involved have worked extremely hard and produced some brilliant work.

"I am very proud of the group who truly deserve their recent award and recognition. I know they are determined to continue working towards informing family, peers and their community about the issues around domestic violence and the support services which are available locally."

Sergeant Dave Young, Durham Agency Against Crime chief executive, said: "Despite facing personal difficulties, these young people have worked diligently on this ongoing project which is of great benefit to other young people and their families."