THE North-East Women's Forum is holding a conference today to ensure it has a voice in shaping the future of the region.

The event, at Sunderland Winter Gardens, will be opened by Councillor Julianna Heron, Mayor of Sunderland.

Women attending will be given the chance to add their views to the North-East Women's Manifesto, which the forum will use to lobby decision-makers as they draw up the powers and responsibilities of an elected North-East Assembly.

Janet Ryder, assembly member for Wales, will explain how the Welsh political landscape has been transformed since the people elected its assembly.

Chairman of the forum Katie Schmuecker said: "This conference will give women an excellent opportunity to hear about the difference that devolution has made in Scotland and Wales."