PRESTON and South Ribble hospitals are to receive government cash to tackle the problem of "bed-blocking".

The problem lies with elderly patients who are unable to leave hospital because of insufficient support in the community but are taking up beds which could be used by patients awaiting treatment.

Out of £300 million put aside for the project, Lancashire is to receive £1,644,000 - some of which will go to Preston Acute Hospitals and Chorley and South Ribble District Trusts.

Both trusts have embraced the "cash for change" initiative which is designed to end the problem by 2004.

A spokesperson for both trusts said they already worked closely with local authorities to try to minimise the problem.

"We have introduced our own scheme to improve discharging patients including a new post for a discharge coordinator and the development of "discharge lounges" at the Royal Preston and Chorley and South Ribble hospitals."

He added: "The nurses running the lounges ensure that appropriate care in the community is organised for older patients." Plans focus on councils and the independent sector entering into longer-term agreements to give home support. about placing people in care homes or giving them other forms of support.

The agreement will help to stabilise the care home sector and create greater confidence in the future of the sector.

Lancashire county councillor Chris Cheetham, portfolio holder for social services, said: "Any additional money to ease the problem of discharges from hospital is extremely welcome and will help us maintain our good record in this area.

"There are rising demands for providing care for people in their own homes and this new money will help in easing those pressures."