EAST Lancashire health bosses are leading the way with ingenious initiatives to improve the lives of older people.

A Blackburn project which encourages the over-50s to participate in activities such as skiing, salsa dancing and even abseiling has been shortlisted for a national award.

And a Hyndburn sheltered housing scheme which brings a whole street of services under one roof is also in the running for an accolade.

The Proactive Lifestyles Project, run by Blackburn with Darwen Primary Care Trust and the borough council, along with the Very Sheltered Housing Scheme, a partnership initiative with Hyndburn and Ribble Valley PCT, are short-listed for the Queen Mother's Care of Older People award.

Just one other nominee in the North of England is up for the award.

Stephen Moore, 85, a resident of Hyndbrook House, the first of four Very Sheltered Housing Schemes to be opened, said: "I have put on a stone in weight since the scheme started and feel much healthier. The team is excellent.

"I feel safe and relaxed knowing that if I have a problem, the scheme manager and the team are there to help me."

Typical sheltered housing schemes usually comprise self-contained flats, communal facilities, extra security, an on-site warden or manager and access to a 24-hour call centre for emergencies.

But the Hyndburn initiatives takes the idea a step further by bringing health care and social services experts all under the same roof so they are available up to 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The scheme has also been labelled 'a home for life' as the dedicated care team provide round-the-clock care for residents within their own home preventing the need to move into residential care.

There are currently four schemes in Hyndburn which were paid for with a £266,000 neighbourhood renewal funding grant.

Over in Blackburn with Darwen older residents have been given a new lease of life with the Proactive Lifestyles project which includes 'Up for Owt' activities to improve health through physical activity.

The winners of 14 regional awards in Manchester will receive £1,000 and go on to a national awards ceremony in London next month. National winners in each category will receive £15,000.