HC Deb 12 June 1975 vol 893 cc241-2W
Mr. Sydney Irving

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what means she employs to assess the grants made to voluntary organisations in recognition of the services they are providing for the disabled.

Mr. Alfred Morris

It is not possible to lay down specific criteria. As in other fields of the Department's responsibility, however, the determinants are broadly the merits of each case and availability of resources, with encouragement being given to organisations seeking to promote training, the development of professionalism and co-operation between statutory and voluntary agencies.

Mr. Sydney Irving

asked the Secretary State for Social Services what specific matters relating to disablement she has referred to the Institute of Consumer Ergonomics at Loughborough University for investigation.

Mr. Alfred Morris

The Institute of Consumer Ergonomics is currently undertaking a large scale evaluation of aids to eating and personal hygiene and also an evaluation of a new type of bath aid. Projects have recently been completed on the evalution of a new type of wheelchair, on the development of a dummy for wheelchair research purposes, and on day and play activities in hospitals for mentally handicapped people.