Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council has launched a WhatsApp channel to send residents news, updates, and information.

Subscribers will receive direct messages including service alerts and community announcements.

The council hopes the popular platform will enhance its communication and make it easier for residents to stay informed.

WhatsApp, one of the world’s leading social media platforms, started off as an alternative to SMS when it launched in 2009.

Today, more than two billion people use WhatsApp, and WhatsApp Channels is one of the latest features allowing users to keep up to date.

Through the new WhatsApp Channel residents will receive updates, news, events and information directly from the council, including service alerts and community announcements.

Cllr Quesir Mahmood, the authority's growth boss, said: “We are always looking at how we can improve how we communicate with residents and partners by offering convenient and easy ways to engage with the local authority.

“Posting updates on WhatsApp means it’s really easy for residents to share information with their contacts – especially for anyone who isn’t using Facebook or other social media platforms.

“The council’s official WhatsApp channel has more than 600 followers already, without having much promotion.

"I think this highlights that residents see some value in having this form of communication available.”

The launch is part of the Council’s continuing efforts to improve the delivery of services to residents and create more meaningful, and efficient engagement with communities.

Alongside the new WhatsApp channel residents can follow Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council on Facebook, Instagram, X and LinkedIn.