§ Lord Morris of Manchesterasked Her Majesty's Government:
What consideration they have given to the report of the John Grooms's inquiry into the needs of disabled young people published on 3 June; and whether there is any action they will be taking further to its findings and recommendations.[HL3149]
§ Baroness AndrewsThe Department of Health remains committed to improving the rights, independence, choice and inclusion of disabled people through ongoing health and social care policy development, in partnership with all interested parties, enabling disabled people to play a full part in the community.
We have asked survey and evaluation colleagues to assess the report before deciding what further action may be required. We are already taking action to improve services for disabled people through the long-term conditions national service framework due to be published next year for implementation from 2005; the Valuing People White Paper on learning disabilities, currently in a five-year implementation phase; and our general investment in social services which will raise standards for all in need including disabled people.