STAFF at a Newton Aycliffe company are being given a break from work to learn about the hazards of drug and alcohol abuse.

All 370 workers at the 3M factory are being given the opportunity to take part in the awareness event, being run as part of European Safety Week.

The initiative is part of the Insight project run by the Durham Agency Against Crime (DAAC), of which the company is a member.

It is an education programme about all aspects of drug abuse, ranging from how to recognise certain substances to the way in which courts deal with offenders.

Eileen Marchant, from the agency, said: "Insight is all about aspects of drugs education and is tailored to suit the interests and needs of those taking part in the event.

"In this case, it is to raise awareness and help parents spot possible signs of substance abuse in the family."

Part Hardy, 3M's occupational health adviser, said the company, which manufactures industrial respirators and masks at its Aycliffe factory, holds regular health promotion events for its staff.

She said: "Many members of the workforce are parents and have expressed an interest in getting information on youth culture and abuse of drugs or alcohol. We hope Insight, with its input from the police, will raise their general awareness of these matters.