ORGANISATIONS that work in the mental health field are being asked for their views.

Chester-le-Street District Council wants to hear from groups able to demonstrate a positive approach to meeting mental health needs.

As a health inequality spearhead area, the authority has received funding from the Department for Health, for a year, to tackle inequalities and improve the health of local people.

Chester-le-Street has been shown to have significant mental health needs and, following discussions, it is seeking to commission an organisation to help meet these needs.

A council spokesman said: "The successful agency taking this forward should have knowledge of local circumstances and services within Chester-le-Street, and be able to deliver across the district.

"They will be expected to engage with organisations across all sectors to raise understanding of mental health issues and develop community skills in improving mental well-being."

Interested groups should make submissions no later than Wednesday, September 19.

For an informal discussion and more information, call Tony Galloway, director of development, on 0191-387-2100.