A NEW database to improve services for disabled children has been launched.

Parents are invited to sign up to Informe which has been commissioned by Bury Council and will be run by the children's charity NCH.

NCH, in partnership with the council, West Pennine Housing Association and local charity Hurdles, runs the Re:d Centre in Morley Street, Bury.

Since its launch last year the project has worked with 334 families, offering a range of support to disabled children, their parents and siblings.

Councillor Mike Connolly, executive member for health and social services, said that reliable information was essential to make strategic plans.

"The launch of Informe will significantly improve the data flow in Bury and will hugely benefit parents and carers of children who have a disability or special needs, as well as the youngsters themselves.

"All who sign up to the database, and it is voluntary, will receive a free and regular information guide with details of all services in the borough.

"Most importantly, up-to-date information about individuals and their needs will allow those working with children with disabilities, from the council to local health services and voluntary organisations, to tailor our support packages and services generally."

The information is being gathered by Karen Robinson, who is based at the Re:d Centre. Data will be collected both via the project and through visits to family homes and put onto a computer database, with confidentiality protected by the Data Protection Act 1998. An annual check will be carried out to ensure the information is up to date.

For more information, contact Karen on 763 3939 or at the Re:d Centre, Morley Street, Bury, BL9 9JQ.