THE number of frontline health workers in Liverpool could be cut to save cash.

Liverpool Primary Care Trust (PCT) employees, including district nurses, managers and administration workers, have received a letter offering them a “mutually agreed leaver’s scheme” so the organisation can reduce costs.

Trust bosses said the measure was completely voluntary, but some frontline workers do not think they will be able to cope if staff leave.

One district nurse, who did not want to be named, told the Daily Post she felt the service was already understaffed.

In May, the Daily Post revealed hospitals including Alder Hey and the Royal Liverpool were offering similar schemes.

A Liverpool PCT spokesperson said: “As part of its efficiency savings programme, the Government has asked all primary care trusts to bring down management costs.

“We are looking at a number of measures designed to save money and make the organisation more efficient, while ensuring we continue to improve the quality of health care for the people of Liverpool.

“As part of this process, we are giving staff the chance to take up options such as annual leave buy-back, flexible retirement and flexible working hours.

“We also have a mutually agreed leaver’s scheme in place for employees who may want to leave the trust in return for a payment.

“These are all completely voluntary measures aimed at reducing costs while maintaining our strong performance.”