MORE than 50 health improvement projects across Bury and Rochdale are to benefit from a share of a £1 million government cash injection.

The allocation is part of the borough's Health Action Zone (HAZ) status granted by the Government last year. The seven-year HAZ programme in Bury and Rochdale is aimed at improving the health of people in the two towns by reducing health and social inequalities in deprived areas.

The main priority areas targeted by the HAZ are the elderly, ethnic minorities, smoking, and children and young people under 25.

Projects that have been awarded more than £1,000 include the council's development of day services for adults with learning disabilities and the appointment of a disability sports co-ordinator for disabled young people. Money has also been given to the Stroke Association for the provision of support services for members of the ethnic minority communities who have suffered a stroke and for a health supplement to be published offering advice to young people.

Mrs Kate Lucy, HAZ project manager, welcomed the extra cash.

She stressed that although the focus was on the priority areas, other groups including, young mothers suffering from post-natal depression, people with mental illnesses and those with physical disabilities would also benefit.

"The beauty of the HAZ is that it encourages health improvement by getting better value from mainstream services," said Mrs Lucy.

"It allows voluntary agencies to take the lead in developing schemes in areas to which they are closest."

Mrs Lucy said the extra cash would also help the HAZ team develop new services, including a borough-wide community nutrition service to promote healthy eating for children.