THE quality of life for people with learning disabilities looks set to improve thanks to the joint efforts of social services and health bosses.

Members of the South Worcestershire NHS Primary Care Trust board have approved proposals to merge their funding pools to improve services for those with learning disabilities as well as their families and carers.

Under the proposals, a pooled budget of £12.7m will provide improved day care services and short breaks for carers and families.

Specialist services already running, such as community nursing, psychological support and social work, will also have a boost under the initiative.

Roger Painter, learning disabilities manager at Worcestershire County Council, said he was delighted with the decision.

He said the pooling of funds would enable the organisations to work more closely with one another and improve the chance of securing extra Government cash.

"This latest agreement is another part of the bigger picture that has seen much closer working between health and social care providers throughout the county," he said.

"The ultimate goal is to provide better services for the people of Worcestershire and I am confident that this is another step towards that goal."

Yvonne Milne, who sits on the South Worcestershire NHS Primary Care Trust board, said she was delighted with the proposed changes which would improve the quality of life for people.

"I welcome this," said Mrs Milne, who has a daughter with learning disabilities.

"It will improve the quality of life for those with learning disabilities and keep them free of pain."