COUNTY Durham people in chronic pain now have someone to talk to when their condition gets them down.
A volunteer-manned phoneline is available night and day, but so far there have not been many calls.
It was launched in June by the Durham City-based group Campain, but it appears that few sufferers are aware of it.
Group founder Mary Hawgood said: "Our problem is getting the number through to people who might need it.
"We know it works, because people who have used it say that they have found it beneficial.
"It is the only one in the North-East, and we feel there is a need for it. It's not a medical helpline, but it helps if you can speak to someone who can understand.''
The line now has a permanent number, (01388) 76203, that volunteers take turns at manning.
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