VULNERABLE residents will soon receive better care from their council as a new initiative launches.

Copeland Borough Council staff are being trained to help them recognise the signs of abuse, mistreatment and neglect and to report their concerns.

Staff will work with other agencies across the area, including those which are directly responsible for the welfare of young people.

Julie Betteridge, designated safeguarding lead at Copeland Council, said: "We recognise that safeguarding children and vulnerable adults in Copeland is paramount, and understand that training our staff is key to ensuring the safety of our residents.

"It is our duty as a local authority to ensure that we do everything in our power to protect our vulnerable people from harm and that is why this council insists that all staff undergo safeguarding training.

"Educating our employees, particularly those on the front line who are out in our local communities seven days per week, is vital."