CAMPAIGNERS are celebrating as long-awaited essential healthcare services are finally set to open in Rossendale.

Health bosses yesterday announced a new Minor Injuries Unit (MIU) will open at Rossendale Primary Health Care Centre in Rawtenstall in April.

The move comes after campaigners, supported by Rossendale Council leader Alyson Barnes presented a 500 signature petition demanding urgent care provision in Valley.

The new unit will be run by NHS East Lancashire and it will complement the existing GP Out of Hours service already available.

Coun Barnes said: “Given that there have been huge budget cuts to the public sector across the board, we are extremely pleased that our health colleagues are investing in this new Minor Injuries Unit in Rossendale.

“This gives the people of the borough access to urgent care provision close to home.”

This service will mean that Rossendale patients will no longer have to travel out of the borough for the treatment of non-life threatening injuries, which had previously seen patients forced to travel to Burnley, or Blackburn.

Susan Warburton, head of community services at NHS East Lancashire said: “NHS East Lancashire is committed to ensuring care is brought closer to people in the community and therefore reduce pressures on the emergency department.

“We promised the residents of Rossendale extra urgent care provision and are confident that the new Rossendale Minor Injury Unit is a service which will not only deliver the benefits that the public are looking for, but is also a sustainable option that we hope will prove to be successful and well-used.”

The 365 days a year service will be led by expert nurse practitioners supported by GPs.

Every household in Rossendale is to receive leaflet about the new services on officer in the next few weeks.