§ Mr. O'BrienTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what consideration has been given to the provision of housing alterations and adaptations for elderly and mentally disabled people being discharged into the community from long-stay hospitals; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. FreemanElderly and mentally disabled people are eligible for assistance for house alterations under the provisions of the Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons Act 1970, and are also eligible for help under the home improvement grant schemes run by local authorities. We would expect health authorities and local authorities to liaise as necessary over any adaptation needed for an eligible patient who is to be discharged.