§ Ms LynneTo ask the Secretary of State for Health the number of cases of bad practice recorded of(a) un-registered carers and (b) registered carers in 1993–94.
§ Mr. BowisInformal carers are usually spouses, relatives or close friends of people with a range of mental or physical needs. They are not registered as such. Poor quality care provided by employed carers is a matter for the employer concerned.
§ Ms LynneTo ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) what plans she has to set up an independent registration and regulatory body for unqualified paid carers within the health and social services departments;
(2) what is her policy on the British Association of Social Workers proposals for an independent statutory register of social workers.
§ Mr. BowisThere have been various proposals for a General Social Services Council to regulate those employed in social work. These proposals are being considered by the Government.