HEALTH problems of residents in an East Lancashire town will be targeted in a bid to put together a health blueprint for the future.

The views of the public, GPs, social workers and voluntary agencies in Great Harwood will be sought and the results combined with health statistics to create a comprehensive picture of the community's needs.

A local health plan will be drawn up once the research is complete and the plan should be put in place during the summer.

The project begins with an evening workshop at Great Harwood Health Centre tomorrow, when people will have a chance to voice their concerns. Poor housing, a lack of recreational facilities and hospital services have already been identified as areas for discussion.

The project is a joint venture by East Lancashire Health Authority, Communicare NHS Trust, Hyndburn Council, Lancashire County Council's social services department and Age Concern.

Health visitor Maria Horne, who will lead the pioneering scheme, said: "The project intends to explore new ways of working for community health.

"The general public and the all the agencies involved will work together to find the roots of poor public health in Great Harwood."

The health authority says Great Harwood's strong community identity may be the key to improving health in the town.

Anyone who wants to attend tomorrow's workshop, or make general comments about health issues, should contact Maria Horne on 01254 381541, or write to: Maria Horne, Great Harwood Project Co-ordinator, Accrington Locality Offices, Communicare NHS Trust, Accrington Victoria Community Hospital, Haywood Road, Accrington, BB5 6AS.

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