LOCAL Health Chiefs welcomed the news of extra government cash to "ease pressures". Stephen Dorrell, Secretary of State for Health, recently announced that St. Helens and Knowsley Health would get an additional allocation of funds for priority services in 1997/98.

With matched funding contributions from the Health Authority it will mean an additional £250.000 to fund three new high dependency beds at Whiston Hospital. An extra £200,000 will be made available for people with mental illnesses and a further £80,000 for the Continuing Care and support of patients being discharged from hospital.

Mr David Fillingham, Chief Executive from the Health Authority, said "This is welcome news. The additional funding will be targeted to address particular local pressures and provide much needed services.

The Health Authority had to submit a 'project' bid which would help to resolve the problems associated with hospital admission and discharge.

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