Local councils in Wales are forecasting a 16 per cent rise in the amount they will invest in their services in the current financial year. Figures just released put total forecast capital expenditure by local authorities in 2004-05 at 951 million poundsThe figures include forecasts of a 42 per cent increase in spending on roads and transport, 40 per cent in social services, 88 per cent more on sport and recreation and a 9 per cent increase in capital spending in the education sector.

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A groundbreaking scheme that allows people with mental health problems to maintain their independence has won a top award for giving more choice to health service patients. Norfolk & Waveney Mental Health Partnership NHS Trust beat three other projects as the first NHS Live Award for Patient Involvement was put to an audience vote at the awards ceremony.A total of 58 Health and Social Care Awards finalists were selected from a record number of applications, more than double the number received in 2003. The Norfolk and Waveney Trust won for its work to promote continuity of care for mental health service users, so they experience less disruption to their home routine. The service works closely with specialists in supported employment in order to enable patients to retain jobs, and with housing staff to develop crisis beds as an alternative to hospital. The team includes a Service User advisor.

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