PEOPLE who need support to live independently -- such as victims of domestic violence and the elderly -- are set to get a more co-ordinated service in Bolton when a national programme starts up next month.

The Supporting People programme, which comes into effect from April 1, is intended to offer vulnerable people the help they need to live in their own home.

The programme will be run locally by Bolton Council.

Supporting People aims to help disabled people, older people, anyone with mental health problems, victims of domestic violence, HIV or AIDS sufferers and youngsters leaving care. The programme will help them to live in, or move into their own home, and will offer support such as sheltered housing, women's refuges, community alarms and visiting services.

It will also provide advice on issues ranging from paying accommodation bills to making homes secure. Cllr Cliff Morris, executive member for social services and health, said: "Many people already receive support in their home, but the idea of Supporting People is that it can be more responsive and flexible to local needs."

For more details about the scheme, call 01204 335313.