EXTENDED weekend treatment has been announced in Blackburn and Darwen over the winter period.

Blackburn with Darwen Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) has worked with Lancashire Care NHS Foundation Trust and other partners to provide additional services.

Until March and by appointment only, Darwen Health Centre and Barbara Castle Way Health Centre are offering treatment room services for wound assessment, wound care and leg ulcer management on Saturdays and Sundays from 10am until 2pm.

These services are normally only available during the week.

Barbara Castle Way Health Centre will also be open during the same hours for minor injuries such as bites, injuries to hands, burns and scalds, and minor wounds.

Dr Chris Clayton, clinical chief officer at Blackburn with Darwen CCG, said: “The cold weather puts increased pressure on our healthcare system but by extending the opening hours of the treatment room[s] and the minor injuries unit at Barbara Castle Way Health Centre I hope this will help people avoid having to make unnecessary visits to the emergency department or urgent care centre, especially during the busy winter months.”

If you need to attend the treatment rooms, an appointment can be made on 01254 617400. The MIU at Barbara Castle Way operates as a walk-in service.