HEALTH staff have been shortlisted for a national award for their work transforming care of people with learning disabilities in the borough.

NHS Bury Clinical Commissioning Group's Medicines Optimisation team is in the running for the Excellence in General Practice Pharmacy at the Clinical Pharmacy Awards.

The team have won acclaim for their programme to reduce over prescribing of anti-psychotic drugs for people with learning disabilities, and those with limited ability to communicate who display challenging behaviour.

An award ceremony will be held in London on April 27 celebrating success across the pharmacy profession.

Nigget Saleem, who leads the project, said: “There is evidence nationally that people with a learning disability, autism or both are being prescribed medication to treat behaviour that can often be an expression of distress or a form of communication rather than any underlying mental health disorder.

"As health professionals it is our duty to ensure these medications are used appropriately.

"The scheme has highlighted the importance of communication and a collaborative approach with health professionals, patients and their carers.

"It has provided GPs with more tools and support to make changes.

"Carers have also seen the benefits from the reduction plans and are working with us to put these in place."