A COUNCIL'S youth justice service has been given a quality award recognising its work with young people with special educational needs and disabilities.

Blackburn with Darwen's team has been given the SEND 'Lead Award' after a year-long assessment give it a rating of seven or higher out of 10 in ten key areas of performance.

Cllr Maureen Bateson, borough children’s services boss, said:"This is great news. I want to congratulate the team on the excellent service they provide to families and children across the borough at what can be very difficult times for them. The team's work makes a huge difference.”

Awards moderator Marius Frank said: "It is a significant achievement, and richly deserved. The submission was comprehensive and evidenced based – one of the strongest yet!”