A COUNCIL service that provides people with support to live independently in their own homes has been shortlisted for a national award.

The Responsive Integrated Assessment Care Team (Riact) works to bring together Darlington Borough Council and the NHS with voluntary organisations, such as the Red Cross, to provide a single point of access for adults in need of practical support.

The team also works to reduce the number of hospital admissions by providing care and support in an individual’s own home and also cut the number of lengthy or unnecessary stays in hospital by making sure people have the care and facilities they need at home.

The team has been shortlisted for the Local Government Chronicle Awards in the health and social care category.

Councillor Andy Scott, Darlington Borough Council’s cabinet member for health and partnerships, said: “Underneath each fact and figure lays a real-life story. Riact deals with real people and affects the quality of life of these people.

“The service has helped people to overcome difficulties through bad health and supported them on their journey back to health and independence.”