HC Deb 14 May 1962 vol 659 cc921-2
18. Sir L. Plummer

asked the Minister of Health how many psychiatric social workers are on the staff of Rampton Hospital.

Mr. Powell

One.

Sir L. Plummer

Does the Minister think that this is the right staffing to deal with the conditions? Is the right hon. Gentleman relying on occupational therapists who have not got the proper qualifications? Will he not do something to increase the number and to increase the training facilities as well as to improve the salary and conditions under which they work, so that we have a proper representation of physiotherapists at Rampton?

Mr. Powell

The Question refers to psychiatric social workers. I have approved a second post which will hp filled as soon as possible. The numbers of trained psychiatric social workers in post are going up annually at a considerable rate.

Sir L. Plummer

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that since before Christmas to the middle of March there was not a psychiatric social worker employed at Rampton at all? How can he possibly deal with these unhappy creatures under conditions like these?

Mr. Powell

I do not dispute the importance of these specialised workers. It is a very selective employment and the training is important. Their numbers are steadily and rapidly increasing.