PEOPLE in Kent who need long-term care from the NHS will find the system clearer following the launch of improved information leaflets.

The leaflets for patients, families and careers clearly explain what needs to be considered with long-term care and how people can appeal if they are unhappy with any decisions.

The leaflets, just launched, are part of a new joined up approach to long-term care from the local NHS, led by Kent and Medway Strategic Health Authority (SHA) and the Social Services departments at Kent County Council and Medway Council.

SHA chief executive Candy Morris said: "This is an important step forward for all of us and is especially good news as this is the first time we have had a single approach agreed between the two local authorities and the local NHS.

"That means that the decision making process is now properly open and transparent to the people it most concerns."