§ Mr. McGradyTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what steps will be taken to reduce the backlog of occupational therapist referrals; and if she will make a statement. [2166]
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§ Mr. WorthingtonDemand for occupational therapy assessments is rising as increasing numbers of dependent people opt to live in their own homes. The Department of Health and Social Services has been working closely with the Health and Social Services Boards and Trusts and, in the case of housing adaptation assessments with the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, to streamline procedures. Service level agreements are being put in place and a list of minor adaptations not requiring occupational therapy input has been agreed. I have asked the Boards to identify, as a matter of urgency, what further steps they can take to reduce waiting lists.