HEALTH chiefs are working to improve services for people with mental health and substance abuse problems.
Authorities in County Dur-ham say patients with such troubles often find it difficult to get the help they need.
As a result, the area's strategic health authority, primary care trusts and social services have spent 18 months talking to those affected.
Their input has led to a strategy for how services should be improved.
There is a strong focus on training and support for those who care for people with mental health and substance misuse needs.
Project manager Mandy Barrett said: "It is not uncommon for people with a mental health illness to have a substance misuse problem too, and these people have very complex needs.
"Historically, people with a dual diagnosis have reported difficulties in getting the help they needed because of the way the services were set up.
"Treatment was often fragmented and it was clear we needed to look at better ways of providing these services.
"Everyone involved has worked hard to address the problems, and we are committed to working together to give people the best possible care and support."
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