Council launches one-stop support directory

A North East local authority has launched a new online directory designed to make it easier for residents to access care, wellbeing and community support services.

Durham County Council has unveiled Connecting County Durham, a digital platform bringing together local organisations, activities and support services in one place for both residents and professionals.

The directory enables users to search for services by keyword, postcode or category, covering areas including care and support, mental and physical wellbeing, childcare, family support, social groups and special educational needs and disabilities.

The new platform replaces the council’s Families Information Service and Locate websites, combining their resources into a single, easy-to-use hub developed in partnership with local people.

Alongside helping residents find support more quickly, the website is designed to assist partner organisations and professionals by allowing them to save and share useful listings with service users, friends and family via email, printable links or unique web codes.

By improving access to trusted local information, the council hopes Connecting County Durham will support earlier intervention, strengthen community connections and make it easier for people to find the help they need when they need it.

Councillor Cathy Hunt, cabinet member for children and young people’s services, said: “I am delighted to see the launch of this new site.

“It is an easy-to-use service which will help families to access childcare, holiday activities, and groups or services for young people with special educational needs and disabilities.”

Councillor Howard Brown, cabinet member for adult and health services, added: “Whether you’re an adult in need of support, or you’re caring for a neighbour or relative and want to find out which services are available locally, Connecting County Durham is going to be a valuable tool.

“I am proud that we’re able to provide this site for residents that will give useful, and easy-to-access information to those who need it and help people with their health and wellbeing needs across the county.”

It is free for organisations to register to the directory and promote their services.

For more information and to register for the directory, click here.

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