LOW income families in County Durham are to have their views heard in Parliament and influence policies affecting their daily lives.

The Hansard Society, an independent education charity, has been asked to gather evidence on issues surrounding low income for the Government's Social Security Select Committee.

It is looking to County Durham, Sheffield and Lewisham, to provide findings through the Internet.

For four weeks, from January 29 to February 26, the project will link people living on low income directly with the select committee, so they can have their say and make suggestions about tax credits and getting from welfare to work.

The Hansard Society, which works to promote more effective parliamentary democracy, is looking to recruit people interested in taking part.

Durham County Council provides free Internet access in all its libraries, allowing people to participate.

Anyone interested should contact freephone 0800 0184 745 to receive information on their nearest Internet access point.

Participants have to register with the society, but will be issued with a password to access the consultation site to ensure security and anonymity.

Members of the select committee, and other MPs, will take part in the consultation process, responding to views expressed and asking and answering questions