AS THE cost-cutting axe swings at health and social care, Wirral people are being asked to come up with ideas to help “re-shape” the services.

An online survey has been launched that will let contributors share their experiences and suggest improvements in the face of budget reductions.

The idea is the brainchild of Wirral Council and NHS Wirral Clinical Commissioning Group - the organisation representing all the borough’s GPs.

The key aims are to help people plan their own care and take more responsibility for looking after their health.

The transformation programme is called “Vision 2018.”

Dr Abhi Mantgani, chief clinical officer for the commissioning group, said: “Nationally, there is a real and significant challenge facing the NHS and its partners from limited finances to a growing elderly population with multiple conditions, and Wirral is no different.

"The future doesn’t just pose challenges, it also presents opportunities.

“We believe that by working together, we can transform health and social care services on the Wirral so that they are both safe and fit for the future.”

Clare Fish, the council’s strategic director of families and wellbeing, said: “There is also a big challenge to encouraging individuals to take greater responsibility for their own health and wellbeing and the lifestyle choices they make which could have negative impacts on their health and create a significant burden on an already pressured service.

“Vision 2018 is Wirral’s response to this challenge and we would very much welcome contribution from the public to help us shape the new approach for Wirral.”

The survey is available online here.

It must be completed by March 28.