Two posts are being created to help people find the best health care services.

The “community health navigators” will assist vulnerable patients to access support.

The roles – one full-time and based in Keighley, the other part-time and in Skipton – form part of an initiative being rolled out across the Airedale, Wharfedale and Craven Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) area.

Dr Brendan Kennedy, an executive GP member of the local CCG, said: “Working in partnership with health and social care services and the voluntary and community sector (VCS), we aim to provide high-quality, co-ordinated care which really benefits patients and their families.

“The VCS provides a range of services to help improve the health of local people and plays an important part in the development of integrated care.

“As part of this, the community health navigators will have a clear role in raising awareness about how the different services can benefit patients. And they will work with health and social care professionals to improve access to the services available.”

The appointments are being made by Keighley & Ilkley Voluntary & Community Action and Craven Voluntary Services.