§ Dr. Winstanleyasked the Minister of Health what guidance he has given to local authorities on the selection of residents, average length of stay, and staffing in hostels for the mentally ill.
§ Mr. K. RobinsonGuidance on these matters was included in the report of a survey of hostels for the mentally ill which was sent to local health authorities in July, 1966. I am sending the hon. Member a copy of the report.
§ Mr. Moonmanasked the Minister of Health (1) to what extent he advises local authorities on their plans for community mental after-care programmes;
(2) by what means, and how often, he brings to the attention of local health authorities the needs of the mentally ill.
126W
§ Mr. K. RobinsonAs occasion arises advice and guidance are given to local authorities generally by circulars, memoranda and other publications, and to individual authorities by correspondence, visits of my professional and other officers, and conferences both formal and informal.
§ Mr. Moonmanasked the Minister of Health if he will make a statement and what plans he has to improve the standard and quality of information provided by his publication, Health and Welfare Plan for the Development of Community Care, regarding the needs of the mentally ill.
§ Mr. K. RobinsonThe form and content of the information to be published will be considered when local authorities next submit their revised plans for the development of their health and welfar services, which will be towards the end of next year.