HC Deb 21 November 1977 vol 939 cc599-600W
Mr. Fitt

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (1) if he is satisfied that health and social services boards in Northern Ireland are aware of the needs and numbers of disabled people in their areas; and if he will make a statement;

(2) if he will make a statement on his discussions with Outset about plans to identify disabled persons in Northern Ireland;

(3) what efforts are being made in Northern Ireland to identify handicapped people in need of care or services by the health and social services boards.

Mr. Carter

More information is required about the number of the handicapped and their needs. As I said in my reply to Questions by my hon. Friend on 9th November 1977—[Vol. 938, c.148–9]—plans to carry out a comprehensive survey of the handicapped throughout Northern Ireland are at an advanced stage. It is intended that the survey should be conducted by Outset, and consultations are taking place involving Outset and officials of the Northern Ireland Departments of Manpower Services and Health and Social Services.