SOCIAL Services bosses at Blackburn with Darwen Council today explained their role in disabled adaptations after a woman was left a virtual prisoner in her home due to a backlog.

Anne Coughlin, 83, needs a wheelchair ramp outside her home in Birchhall Avenue, Darwen, but is 49th on landlord Twin Valley Homes' list. She has already been waiting for 18 months.

The housing association said it was the health authority and Social Services' responsibility to prioritise cases and that its £250,000 annual budget was insufficient for demand.

But David Kerambrum, assistant director of Social Services (Adults), said they were waiting for Twin Valley Homes.

"Blackburn with Darwen Social Services, acting as agents for Twin Valley Homes, has surveyed and costed the recommended adaptations.

"When Twin Valley Homes authorises expenditure, this work will be carried out by Social Services on their behalf," he explained.

"Social Services is working with the Primary Care Trust to improve equipment and adaptation services in Blackburn with Darwen through the Independent Living Service project.."

Coun Sue Reid, Executive Member for Social Services, added: "Working together will help us to improve service for all residents of the borough"