Social workers in County Durham have launched a new initiative which will make it easier for the public to report concerns about the safety of a child.

The Children's Initial Response Service was launched this week by Durham County Council and those that contact the service to voice concerns about the safety of children will speak directly with a qualified social worker.

It is hoped that by allowing the person to speak to a professional straight away, staff will be able to take the necessary action quicker. The new service has replaced the council's former Social Care Direct service for children and the Initial Assessment Team for children.

Since the high profile case of Baby Peter, social services departments and children charity's across the country have seen a sudden rise in the number of calls received about suspected cases of child abuse. It appears more people are willing to report concerns about abuse and services such as the Children's Initial Response Service, will make it easier for people to do so.

Jill McGregor strategic manager for children and young people told BBC News: "At the heart of this new service is the desire to provide a simple, quick pathway for people to report worries. It will give access to a qualified social worker who can make timely and well assessed decisions regarding appropriate action."

"The launch of this new front of house service represents our continued commitment to ensuring that children, young people and their families receive a timely and appropriate response when safeguarding concerns arise," she added.