A SUPPORT service to help private tenants is to be extended across the Tees Valley.

The Hartlepool Floating Support Service, established by the Endeavour Housing Association and Hartlepool Borough Council, has been hailed a success.

A similar scheme for people living in privately rented accommodation will now operate across the Tees Valley, from Darlington to Redcar.

"The service is preventing homelessness and the breakdown of tenancies and families by providing on going support," said housing manager Steve Amos.

The project was developed through funding from the Government and was part of a bigger pilot scheme to address issues that were arising in the private rented sector. Hartlepool was one of only six local authorities nationally to be chosen to run the pilot.

Margaret Sutheran was recruited as a support worker to develop the service and to provide assistance to vulnerable tenants.

She said: "Over the time that the service has been in place, there has been some very positive stories of how people have developed through receiving support.

"This has included cooking, shopping, menu planning, using community facilities, keeping the home clean and tidy, ensuring repairs and maintenance is carried out."

The service has been recognised by the Prime Minister's Homeless Unit as good practice service.