THREE much-needed Bolton projects for the mentally ill have been given a massive boost following yesterday's government announcement of £467,055 more cash.

The biggest grant is £256,687 for Bolton Council social services department's Assertive Outreach Team.

They are involved in helping with crisis and respite care which gives relatives a break from caring for someone with a mental illness.

A special house where people can stay for a few days is currently being set up.

This money will be used to recruit six new social workers who offer support once the mentally ill person has gone back into the community.

The idea is to avoid unnecessary hospital admission.

The second scheme which will get cash help is a specialist re-habilitation project will receive £157,776.

Three extra workers will be taken on to help people with long-term mentally health problems.

The third project is a mental health service to Asian communities which will get £52,592.

The grants were among 109 schemes in 83 local authorities which were announced yesterday by Health Secretary Stephen Dorrell.

Cllr Ken Peters, chairman of Bolton's social services committee, said: "If we have been successful, then it is a major achievement and we are delighted to have secured funds for this very important and sensitive area of our responsibilities."

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