§ Mr. Fittasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what is his estimate of the number of handicapped people under the age of 65 years who are accommodated either in a residential home or in a hospital which is normally used wholly or mainly for the care of elderly persons; what action he is taking to reduce the number; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Concannon,pursuant to his reply [Official Report, 6th July 1976; Vol. 914, c.512],gave the following information:
At 31st December 1974, 65 physically handicapped persons under the age of 65 were accommodated in statutory residential homes for the elderly. In addition, there are at present 101 physically handicapped persons under that age in hospital geriatric units.
I would like to see these numbers reduced and specific provision made where appropriate, but progress in that direction will depend upon the limited resources available in the next few years for the development of health and personal social services.