RADIO DJs will help to put some spin on the launch of a project giving young people in care more of a say over their future.

Social services officials in County Durham believe the new Looked After Networks (LANs) will provide the necessary support to those in residential or foster care.

Forming part of social services' "listening to children" strategy, the LANs follow a successful pilot project in the Sedgefield area.

Listening to Children aims to ensure the views of young people are represented and acted on throughout the work of the social services department.

The launch will see the publication of a CD and a back-up brochure, which will be sent to all those in foster and residential care, as well as to foster carers, social workers and others with an interest in becoming involved.

Twenty young people who have contributed to the networks and to a graphic novel, backed by Northern Arts and produced with the help of artist Ivor Arbuckle, will be at the launch debut.

Presenters from radio station Galaxy FM, Karen Wright and Steve Furnell, will be providing entertainment at the County Hall launch, in Durham, on Thursday.

County council senior care coordinator, Duncan Routley, said: "Many young people in care find they often have to move a few times before they find the right permanent home.

"These projects provide them with on-going friendships and support during this difficult time, and also offer them the chance to tell us how social services could be improved.

"The networks also provide help to people who are considering becoming foster carers."

Sedgefield LAN now involves almost 50 youngsters in foster care, and has involved them in various activities and social events, while also equipping them with Internet access to help their education.

Activities arranged so far include an air flight, trips to theme parks and museums, meeting former England and present Newcastle United captain, Alan Shearer, and the rest of the squad.

They have also been involved in an Internet website, and helped to host conferences and other events for young people living away from home.