A MASSIVE £1 million cash injection has been agreed by North West Lancashire Health Authority, launching a major initiative to tackle the problems posed by an ageing population.

The health authority, in partnership with Blackpool and Lancashire social services, intend to retain its current range of services while investing the money on services for vulnerable elderly people.

There are plans to appoint an additional mental health, nursing and other staff. The health authority has also identified the need to replace selected hospital services at Rossall and Wesham Park Hospitals in Blackpool, as well as Sharoe Green Hospital in Preston, with services which can administered at home.

There will also be greater emphasis on rehabilitation and the need to jointly manage crisis, respite and longer term care services.

Continuing care adviser for NWLHA, Mike Bullock, said: "This is a golden opportunity for the NHS and social services to work together to improve the quality of life for older people and older people with mental health problems."

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