A LONG-AWAITED step in the drive to integrate health and social care services in the borough is set to take place in the next few months.

The newly-formed strategic commissioning board, a joint body which will include members from local health and social care bodies, is expected to meet for the first time in October.

This is all part of a move to have a single health and social care strategy with a shared approach in Bury.

The single commissioning committee will have equal representation from members of Bury Council and the borough’s clinical commissioning group (CCG).

Both the council and the CCG governing board approved the proposal last month, but one veteran councillor took issue with who will be on the board.

Conservative councillor Roy Walker raised concerns about a lack of opposition members from the local authority being represented on it.

The arrangements will now be submitted to NHS England for approval which is expected within six weeks.