PATIENTS with mental health problems account for almost a quarter of "bed-blockers" in Worcestershire, it has been revealed.

In one community hospital ward for patients with mental health problems, "bed-blocking" was recently running at 50 per cent and it is now set at around 24 per cent across the county.

Dr Ian McPherson, from Worcestershire Community and Mental Health NHS Trust, highlighted the issue at a board meeting at Hill Crest, in Redditch.

He pointed out that the impact was on the "particularly vulnerable sections of society", many of whom were in their 80s and 90s.

Many are suffering from dementia and are waiting for places in nursing homes.

But it also had a knock-on effect.

"It can mean that on some days we cannot admit anyone," said the service director for mental health and learning disabilities.

"It is a serious issue for all of us. If it had been the acute hospitals it would have been banner headlines, but for mental health it is not so important."

He also said nurses in acute hospitals were sometimes having to deal with patients with mental health problems who, once their physical problems were cleared up, were unable to find a bed in a community hospital.

Trust members heard that there were 78 patients in the county's community hospitals waiting for discharge but unable to leave because of the current social services cash crisis.

Board member Peter Pinfield, who is also portfolio holder for Worcestershire County Council, said the situation was deteriorating.

"The latest indications are that it is getting worse and it is very important to bring this to the Minister's attention," he said.

"I know that we will not be able to cope with winter pressures unless we have some more input from central Government."

The normal number of beds available for acute admissions in the Trust was between 21 and 23, but chairman John Calvert said the whole system was "getting gummed up".