HC Deb 18 March 2004 vol 419 cc445-6W
Mark Tami

To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many people on average per local authority in England received financial support towards nursing home provision in England in each of the last five years. [161054]

Dr. Ladyman

The table shows the number of council supported residents in nursing homes in England as at 31 March, for 1999 to 2003. Data broken down by council with social service responsibilities has been placed in the Library.

Council supported residents1 in nursing homes, 1999–2003—England
Rounded numbers
31 March
1999 73,465
2000 73,860
2001 71,845
2002 72,630
20032 78,400
1Includes permanent and temporary residents.
2Data includes clients formerly in receipt of preserved rights.

Sandra Gidley

To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many and what percentage of care homes have dedicated respite care places in England; and if he will make a statement. [161931]

Dr. Ladyman

The Government do not hold information on the number or percentage of respite care places in care homes in England.

Ms Walley

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what his policy is on the provision of drinking water for elderly people in residential care; and if he will make a statement. [161357]

Dr. Ladyman

Care home staff should assist residents in drinking where such a need has been identified in the individual service user's care plan. These responsibilities are set out in the National Minimum Standards for Care Homes for Older People, standards 7 and 15. Care homes also have responsibilities under the Food Safety Act 1990 to ensure safe practices.

Ms Walley

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what his Department's policy is on the provision of drinking water for persons receiving home care; and if he will make a statement. [161360]

Dr. Ladyman

Staff are expected to assist with drinking where the need for assistance has been identified in the individual's service user plan. These responsibilities are set out in the Domiciliary Care National Minimum Standards, Standards 2, 7, 8, and 11. Domiciliary care agencies have responsibilities under the Food Safety Act 1990 to ensure safe practices.