BOLTON Hospice is taking its caring service into patients' homes.

The 14-bed hospice, opened off Chorley New Road four years ago, is about to start a scheme called Home Care with a special nursing team.

The move comes after an out-patient consultation service was established.

This offered medical and nursing advice and support to patients who did not need, or wanted, admission or day attendance.

A hospice spokesman said: "Through our experience, we have learned that many patients would prefer to remain at home, where they are most at ease, and able to be with their family and friends."

The Home Care system will provide special assessment, support and holistic care in patients' own homes, "extending the Hospice philosophy of care into the community".

The Regional Health Authority has made cash available for the first year's running costs.

The scheme is also fully supported by the Wigan and Bolton Health Authority, with whom the hospice has a contract for service provision.

A senior nurse to lead the Home Care team has been appointed, and other posts will be made as the service develops.

Medical equipment will be needed for the scheme and to help, staff and customers at the ASDA store in Astley Bridge have donated £2,200 to help the service.

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