HC Deb 10 January 1978 vol 941 cc696-7W
Mr. Kilroy-Silk

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services how many juveniles have been placed by local authorities in the St. Andrew's Psychiatric Hospital, Northampton; and how many are now there.

Mr. Ennals

Information about admissions in the past is not readily available. I understand that eight juveniles, all clients of social services departments of local authorities, are undergoing treatment in the hospital at present.

Mr. Kilroy-Silk

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what is his policy on the placement of juveniles in locked mixed, adult wards of private psychiatric hospitals.

Mr. Ennals

Such hospitals come within the scope of the Nursing Homes Act 1975. I would expect inspections under Section 9 to have regard to the policies generally applicable in the National Health Service, where it is recognised that although separate psychiatric facilities are normally appropriate for the treatment of children and adolescents, some adolescents can suitably be treated with adults.

Mr. Kilroy-Silk

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what inspections, if any, his Department carries out of private psychiatric hospitals; if a recent inspection has been conducted at St. Andrew's Psychiatric Hospital, Northampton; and what was the result.

Mr. Ennals

Inspections are carried out under Section 9 of the Nursing Homes Act 1975, and are now the responsibility of the relevant area health authorities, though an officer from my Department also attends. St. Andrew's Psychiatric Hospital, Northampton was last inspected in November 1977. No reason was found to question the registration.

Mr. Kilroy-Silk

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he is satisfied with the facilities available and the treatment provided in private psychiatric hospitals.

Mr. Ennals

Such hospitals come within the scope of the Nursing Homes Act 1975, and registration is subject to inspection under Section 9. Area health authorities have the power to ensure that the standards meet those required for registration.