§ Mr. RedmondTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if she will ensure that all NHS patients, with the exception of young children and patients in intensive care units, should be offered the choice of accommodation in a single-sex area with segregated toilets and bathroom facilities without delaying their treatment or otherwise reducing its quality; and if she will make a statement.
§ Mr. SackvilleThis is a matter for local decision, but we do expect all patients to be treated with dignity and respect for their religious and cultural beliefs. A new standard in the revised and expanded patients charter to be issued in the new year will expect patients to be told in advance if they are to be treated in mixed-sex wards. This will allow them to raise any objections with the hospital which will, where possible, take account of their views.