THE public is to be consulted over plans to focus mental health care at Leigh Infirmary.

Wigan and Bolton Health Authority have announced the consultation process over the transfer of in-patient mental health services to Leigh.

The plans are part of a scheme to improve services across Wigan and Bolton - and you have until mid-October to have a say in the matter.

A joint steering group to plan and lead these improvements in local mental health care has been formed by Wigan and Bolton Health Authority, Wigan and Leigh Health Services NHS Trust and Wigan Council.

They are out to strengthen support to people living in their own homes and communities so fewer people need to spend time in hospital.

Another aim is to improve the standard of accommodation for those requiring in-patient treatment - one of the reasons for the proposed transfer of facilities from Billinge to Leigh.

Trust chief executive Pearse Butler explained:"More modern buildings at Leigh will not only provide a better general standard of accommodation but allow us to more easily care for different types of patients in separate areas."

Health Authority chief executive Mike Ruane said:"We see this as just one element in a joint strategy that will significantly improve the services on offer. There is certainly no intention to reduce spending on mental health."

And Wigan Social Services director Bernard Walker added:"We know there are often fears and concerns about changes in health care provision, but we are confident mental health services are now moving in the right direction."

From mid-July copies of consultation documents can be collected from: Bryan House, 61 Standishgate, Wigan or 43 Churchgate, Bolton; or ring the Health Authority on 01942 772711/01204 390034 or Healthwise, Freephone 0800 665544.

Comments on the proposals should be in writing or given verbally on the Healthwise number.

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