(Image: Darlington Borough Council)
Darlington Borough Council has launched a new WhatsApp channel to keep residents updated with the latest news and service alerts.
The channel offers a one-way broadcasting service, delivering council updates and important information directly to residents’ phones during working hours.
The service is designed to reach people who may not use other social media platforms.
Councillor Mandy Porter, cabinet member for resources at Darlington Borough Council, said: "According to Ofcom, WhatsApp is the smartphone app most used by UK adults.
"Expanding our communications channels to reflect how people prefer to receive information will make it easier for residents to stay informed about local issues and decisions impacting them and their communities, as well as strengthening our existing emergency communications approach."
Users can follow or unfollow the channel at any time and opt in to receive notifications when updates are posted.
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Unlike WhatsApp chats, followers cannot see who else is subscribed to the channel or view other users’ phone numbers.
While comments are not permitted, users can react to posts with emojis and share content with others on WhatsApp, including those who do not follow the channel.
To sign up, visit www.darlington.gov.uk/whatsapp and scan the QR code on the page.