HC Deb 06 December 1979 vol 975 cc306-7W
Mr. Kilroy-Silk

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what is the number of psychogeriatric beds available for males in the Southport area; and what steps he is taking to increase the number.

Sir George Young

There are at present no facilities specifically for elderly severely mentally infirm men in the Sefton northern health district, which includes Southport. Such patients are admitted either to geriatric wards in the district or to beds for the elderly severely mentally infirm available at Winwick hospital, Warrington.

Assessment of local needs and priorities is a matter for the relevant health authorities. I understand that a day hospital for elderly severely mentally infirm men and women is expected to become operational in April 1980 at Greaves Hall hospital, Banks. In-patient facilities are planned for the proposed new district general hospital at Southport.