A GAME of "disease bingo" was just one of the activities which helped demystify the sometimes complicated world of the health service.

More than 20 local voluntary groups attended Radcliffe Civic Suite last week for a "Cracking the Code" event organised by Bury and Rochdale Health Authority.

The purpose of the day was to simplify the structure of community health, its acronyms and impending changes. Presen- tations were made about such areas as funding sources and there was also a workshop looking at barriers to partnership working.

Organiser Janet Wild said: "It is hoped that everyone left feeling more empowered and energised, and ready to use their new-found knowledge to further their partnership involvement and thus their organisation's potential."

She added: "The positive response and involvement of groups on the day highlighted the need for more information on health service changes. Future events are planned based on the suggestions of those commenting on the day."