§ Sir Hugh Rossiasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will publish the report of the survey of artificial limb users commissioned by his Department; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. NewtonThe survey report gives valuable evidence about the problems faced by amputees and their views on the services provided for them. A majority of those interviewed said that they were fairly satisfied or very satisfied with their artificial limbs and with the services at artificial limb and appliance centres. However, several problem areas were identified. Users were concerned about the comfort and appearance of limbs, the adequacy of guidance and information, and the length of time required to supply limbs and carry out repairs.
The survey, which was carried out in 1983 by Research Surveys of Great Britain Ltd. was funded by the Department and managed by the Office of Population Censuses and Surveys. It involved interviews with 466 artificial limb users attending the Department's centres at Roehampton, Exeter, Plymouth, Liverpool and Sheffield.
I am placing copies of the report in the Library, and I am making it available to the working party reviewing the services of artificial limb and appliance centres, to whom it should be of particular value in looking at the problem 852W areas to see if ways can be found to introduce improvements. Copies are also being sent to manufacturers of artificial limbs and the major voluntary organisations concerned with the limbless disabled.