HEALTH officials in Darlington have revealed how they intend to include the public in shaping future services.

Darlington Primary Care Trust has produced a draft strategy for improving patient and carer involvement, and is looking for feedback on it.

The strategy says the trust will shape services around the needs and preferences of patients, families and carers in the future. It will also aim to improve access time and cut waiting lists, build closer relationships and provide safe, co-ordinated care in a clean and friendly environment.

"To do all of this we need the help of the public," said trust chairwoman Sandra Pollard.

"No one knows the services better than the people who use them, so we need to be told what they think and how they can be improved. We want to involve people in every aspect of designing and developing services."

For a copy of the strategy, call Helen Webster on (01325) 364271, or visit www.darlingtonpct.nhs.uk