People can find out more about proposed changes to a Cromer healthcare unit and quiz clinicians and NHS managers at a public event next month.

North Norfolk Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) plans to move away from hospital-based services to provide more care in the community.

And controversial proposals that could potentially see intermediate beds removed from Benjamin Court have come under fire.

Options outlined for the Roughton Road unit in a consultation document include the development of a new supported care service.

It would also see eight palliative care beds, two intravenous therapy beds and/or chairs, six discharge to access beds, and additional outpatient clinics brought to the unit.

In addition, there are plans for a health and community support hub which would comprise different types of beds and non-bed based NHS and voluntary sector services.

This means patients, their families, and carers, would be supported with end of life care too. There would also be support for people who are able to remain living independently.

GP Dr Anoop Dhesi, chairman of North Norfolk CCG and partner at Staithe Surgery Stalham, said; 'We understand that no-one likes change but we firmly believe that the options in the consultation document represent a real opportunity for us to improve care and we look forward to hearing the public's thoughts at the event.

'Essentially we need to change the way the health system works and the CCG is committed to helping people stay out of hospital and continue living independently at home.

'The views of local people are really important to us and we want as many people involved as possible to shape the service.

'The consultation document was prepared with the input from our community engagement panel and our steering group so we are really keen to hear people's views on these proposals.'

Benjamin Court provides professional NHS support in both the 18-bed ward and on-site clinics in Cromer.

The public event will be held between 12pm and 8pm at the Cromer Community Centre, on Tuesday, August 29.

The public consultation runs until September 11, visit http://www.northnorfolkccg.nhs.uk/benjamincourtconsultation