§ Dr. FoxTo ask the Secretary of State for Health which health authorities have implemented schemes to provide safe havens in which violent patients can be treated. [47858]
§ Mr. HuttonThe Department issued Health Service Circular 2000–01 "Tackling violence towards GPs and their staff" to health authorities on 28 January 2000. Health authorities were asked to audit levels of violence,1220W assess risk and put appropriate plans into place which address safer working, in close consultation with local medical committees (LMCs).
A recent survey of fifty LMCs found that 22 health authorities had provided advice on how to deal with violent patients; 10 had provided secure facilities for consultation and treatment of violent patients; 4 had other successful schemes in place; and 9 health authorities and LMCs had discussions in progress.
The following health authorities have secure facilities or other schemes in place:
Health Authority areas where secure facilities are provided:
- Southampton
- Suffolk
- South Derbyshire
- Liverpool
- Avon
- Nottingham
- North Warwickshire
- Hillingdon
- Camden and Islington
- Hampshire & Isle of Wight
Health Authority areas where other related schemes are in place:
- East and West Kent Lincolnshire
- Wirral
- Gloucestershire