AN organisation is aiming to make every County Durham resident aware of its goldmine of information on health, disabilities or family matters.

Directions was set up six years ago to create a database of local and national information on everything from support groups, mobility advice and respite care, to holidays for people with special needs, and welfare benefits advice.

The Red Cross service, which is also funded by social services, has a drop-in centre in Bishop Auckland and is hoping more families, carers and professionals will use the service.

A spokesman said: "If someone has suffered from an illness and needs information, or wants to know details of a national charity or active local group then we can help.

"Perhaps an accident has caused mobility problems, and information is required on the possibilities of car adaptions, volunteer drivers or help for an employer to cover the costs of adapting the work place," he said.

"We aim to inform every professional concerned with the health and welfare of the people of County Durham to be aware of this wonderful resource. As with all services to the public, we can only function if people are aware of our existence."

Directions' Freephone advice line, which is only available to County Durham residents, is 0800 393726.

There is also a professional advice line on (01388) 661991.