CO-OPERATION among co-operatives is helping a County Durham organisation offer work experience for clients recovering from mental health problems.

Broadgate Farm Co-operative, near Esh Winning, has got a £500 community dividend grant from North Eastern Co-op's community dividend scheme.

Set up in 1996, the organisation provides day care facilities for 65 adults aged from 18 to 60.

Concentrating on the back-to-work ethic, skills are developed in computing, arts and crafts and horticulture.

The co-op's grant will be put toward the purchase of a van to enable clients to gain hands-on skills in the outreach department, which provides community service.