§ Mr. Frank FieldTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security what steps his Department is taking to disseminate the guidance to Benefits Agency medical services on HIV infection to doctors and staff. [25247]
§ Mr. Roger EvansThis is a matter for Mr. Ian Magee, the chief executive of the Benefits Agency. He will write to the hon. Member.
Letter from Ian Magee to Mr. Frank Field, dated 22 May 1995:
The Secretary of State for Social Security has asked me to reply to your recent Parliamentary Question about the guidance that is issued by the Benefits Agency on HIV infection.A Guide to Benefits and HIV" was produced by the Benefits Agency in June 1993. It was written in co-operation with many organisations including the Terrence Higgins Trust. The Guide was distributed widely throughout the Agency, and provides advice for staff, including the Agency's medical advisors, and customers about the benefit and welfare issues which affect people with HIV positive related illnesses. There is also advice on other agencies and outside organisations from whom help may be obtained; a list of related publications is also included.Additionally, during 1994 guidance was issued to staff, including the Agency's medical advisors, on the following topics:-
- i) the safe disposal of hypodermic needles discarded by the public in Benefits Agency District and Branch Offices.
- ii) precautions to be taken by those administering First Aid, particularly in the avoidance of blood contact.
- iii) the Benefits Agency Policy Statement covering employees and clients who may have AIDS or be HIV positive.
I have enclosed both "A Guide to Benefits and HIV" and the further guidance I have mentioned, copies of which have been placed in the Library.I hope you find this reply helpful.