THE proposed merger of health services across the borough and neighbourhood policing are just two of the big issues to be discussed at the next series of Local Area Forum meetings on Wednesday June 13.

The forums, which are open to everyone, give local people the chance to have their say about matters which affect them in the areas they live.

Health authority representatives will be explaining the proposed merger of the Community Trust and the three Primary Care Groups at St Helens North, St Helens South, Newton and Haydock to form one Primary Care Trust for the borough.

The new trust would offer an unparalleled opportunity for local doctors, nurses, midwives, health visitors, social services staff and the community they serve to shape services to provide improved health care facilities for everyone.

Part of its role would also be supporting and developing primary care, developing community based services and working in partnership with organisations whose work has an impact upon health.

And neighbourhood policing, which aims to improve trust between police and the public by understanding the needs of communities and responding to them, will also be on the agenda.

This involves police officers taking personal responsibility for policing their own neighbourhoods and working with the community to reduce crime and disorder. Members of the public will be told that the success achieved in the West Sutton and Parr and Hardshaw wards by the Community Action Team who will highlight the value of the new scheme.

Anyone who wishes to include any other item on the agenda should contact David Parry, Head of Public Affairs, St Helens Council on 01744 456608.

Area 1 - Newton East, West and Haydock

Legh Vale Primary School, Legh Road, Haydock.

Area 2 - Broad Oak, Parr, Hardshaw and Blackbrook

Blackbrook St Mary's Catholic Infant School, Chain Lane.

Area 3 - Grange Park, Thatto Heath and West Sutton

St John's Church, Crossely Road, Ravenhead.

Area 4 - Billinge and Senely Green, Moss Bank and Rainford

Rainford Village Hall, Church Road.

Area 5 - Queens Park, Windle and Eccleston

Cowley High School, Hard Lane, Windle.

Area 6 - Sutton and Bold, Marshalls Cross and Rainhill

Robins Lane Primary School, Robins Lane, Marshalls Cross.