YOUNGSTERS have been recognised for their work raising awareness of difficulties experienced by people with different learning needs.

For the past six months, the young people, from Teesdale Community Resources (TCR), in Barnard Castle, have been taking part in an Education in the Community-funded project looking at difficulties people have accessing services.

At an awards night at Glenholme Youth Centre, Crook, young people from the dales were recognised for their contribution to the community.

Members of the Barnard Castle group were presented with Young Achievers awards for their work with staff, volunteers and residents at Craigmore House Care Home, Barnard Castle, learning about the practicalities of integration in the community.

Keith Jones, an Education in the Community worker at TCR, said: "Most people wrongly assume that there are services and facilities specifically designed for those with any kind of learning or physical difficulty. Our experiences have taught us that this is rarely the case.

"It is hoped the collaborative approach will enable us to create facilities that adequately accommodates all sectors of the community."