HC Deb 03 July 1973 vol 859 cc65-6W
Mr. Carter-Jones

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what advice and assistance is given by his Department to improve domiciliary assistance for the aged and disabled to allow such people to live at home within their known environment; and if he will make a statement.

Sir K. Joseph

I would refer the hon. Member to my reply to him on 22nd June.

Mr. Carter-Jones

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what financial assistance his Department is prepared to give to social services departments of local authorities which are faced with increased demands for domestic help of all types for the disabled and the aged; if he is aware of the impact of equal pay on recruitment for such workers; and if he will give major assistance for this type of social service worker.

Sir K. Joseph

Expenditure by local authorities on home help services is relevant expenditure for the purposes of rate support grant. Account is taken in determining the quantum of grant both of changes in the cost of services and of the forecast scale of provision.

Mr. Carter-Jones

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what assistance was given by the Department to Lady Sharp in compiling her report on vehicles for disabled drivers; what experience the officials concerned had of invalid vehicles other than those issued by the Department; and if he will make a statement.

Sir K. Joseph

My Department's resources, including the knowledge of doctors and engineers experienced in the vehicle needs of severely disabled people, have been and remain at Lady Sharp's disposal to supplement information acquired from other sources. Professional knowledge within my Department about such vehicles necessarily extends beyond those which are issued.