Groups bid for vulnerable children's services in Devon

Three groups have been shortlisted to take over some NHS services for children in Devon.

The successful group will look after care for some of the county's most vulnerable children, including those who are terminally ill and disabled.

Bidders include Virgin Care; Serco working with the Cornwall Partnership NHS Trust; and the Devon Partnership Trust with Barnardos and Interserve.

NHS Devon said the aim was to improve services and deliver the best care.

Services the bidders hope to run include palliative nursing for terminally ill children, health visiting and respite care for those with disabilities.

A decision is expected to be made in July, NHS Devon said.