EAST Durham has been chosen as one of only three areas in the country to pilot a new scheme aimed at reducing falls among elderly people.

Easington Primary Care Trust has been selected from more than 140 applications nationwide to take part in the project, which is aimed at cutting falls by 30 per cent during the next 12 months.

Every five hours an older person is killed through an accidental fall and under the first scheme of its kind in the country preventative practical measures and advice are to be offered throughout east Durham.

The new Healthy Communities Collaborative programme is based on the principle that through the implementation of small changes a much safer environment for the elderly can be achieved.

The Easington bid was chosen because of the area's existing strong track record of community involvement in reducing health problems.

Pivotal to the project is the setting up of five community teams in Horden, Easington, Blackhall, Thornley and Wheatley Hill.

Each team is made up of community members and local professionals representing a wide range of disciplines from social services to Age Concern.

Les Grey, project facilitator for Easington Primary Care Trust, said: "Preventing falls in older people is a priority because of the consequences and costs to the older person who has fallen, and for their families, friends and carers.''

Fundamental to the success of the venture is the recruitment of volunteer helpers. Mr Grey said they were now seeking volunteers to join the Easington Colliery team.

Easington's acting community health development officer Judith Quinn welcomed the venture.

She said: "This is an exciting opportunity for local people to work with health providers to help make a difference and improve the health and wellbeing of older people.''

All of the helpers in the project will be expected to be available until September 2003.

Those taking part will be required to attend local meetings held once a month.

Further details about the project are available from Mr Grey on 0191-586 6681.