§ Mr. Moonmanasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if she will publish in the OFFICIAL REPORT details of the £28 million allocated for 1972–76 to promote an improvement in the services for the elderly; and also if she will indicate what priority is being given to the elderly as a result of her recent instruction.
§ Dr. OwenThe sum of £28 million at 1972 prices to promote an improvement in hospital services for the elderly over the period 1972–76 has not yet been expended, but the allocations so far made are as follows:
1972–73 £1 million 1973–74 £8.8 million 1974–75 £15.7 million Hospital authorities were asked to use this special allocation to improve, by additional provision, replacement or upgrading, the geriatric services in those areas in their region which were considered to be most in need, and to provide accommodation close to their homes for elderly patients with severe dementia.
Improvements made from the allocation include the provision of new and replacement wards, day hospitals and day rooms, ward upgrading and improvements to sanitary facilities, installation of lifts and improved heating, provision of rehabilitation facilities and new furniture and equipment.
Information is not yet available on the resources which have been allocated to services for the elderly in health authorities capital and revenue programmes for 1974–75.