LANCASHIRE County Council is recruiting occupational therapists as part of its plans to deal with impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

These specialised staff support older people and adults with disabilities to live independently reducin pressures on the health and care system.

The authority - which covers 12 boroughs including Hyndburn, Ribble Valley, Burnley, Pendle and Rossendale - is also looking for new social workers and support officers.

The occupational therapists will support people with hospital discharges to ensure they have the care and support they need at home, and prevent bed blocking and hospital delays.

They will also work with community health and social care staff to prevent hospital admissions.

The closing date for applications is Sunday 10 January. The roles will be fixed-term positions for two years.

Cllr Graham Gooch, ccounty council adult services boss, said: "Occupational therapists play a vital role ensuring adults have the support they need to live as independently as possible.

"This is absolutely crucial because living independently and safely at home is much better for people's mental and physical health.

"They will ensure people are less likely to need to go to hospital.

"This recruitment campaign is a key part of our plans to support the NHS throughout the Covid-19 pandemic."