OLD people across County Durham are being asked their views on the services provided for them.

The Labour-run council has embarked on a controversial programme which entails the closure of several residential homes and the building of new establishments.

The council says it is giving the charity Age Concern Durham County more than £200,000 to gauge people's opinions on services.

Its social services department has signed a strategic local agreement with the charity.

The council says it is part of a drive to meet Government calls for better services, with higher standards of care for old people.

The council says one of the main tasks is getting pensioners more involved with service delivery and planning and that it has launched a consultation exercise.

Geraldine Waugh, a team manager with social services, said: "The proper care of older people involves a whole range of different organisations, including ourselves, health services and the district councils, so it is absolutely crucial that we work in partnership to achieve our common aims.

"Age Concern is in a fantastic position to find out exactly what older people want with regard to planning and implementing efficient services.

"From Durham County Council's point of view, it is another step along our road of aiming for better government for older people and in meeting the National Service Framework for Older People.

"By engaging in widespread consultation, we are empowering older people to take a real part in service development and planning."

Harriet Gibbon, chief officer for Age Concern Durham County, said the charity had a number of user panels made up of older people from across the county.

"We have carried out a number of consultations in the past on a range of issues."