HC Deb 30 March 1982 vol 21 cc91-2W
Mrs. Renée Short

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what is the recommended number of nursing staff for Darenth Park hospital in Kent; how many are actually employed there; how many of these are untrained; what is the ratio of staff to patients; and if he will give similar figures for each of the last five years.

Mr. Geoffrey Finsberg

Information requested is not readily available centrally. The hon. Member may like to contact the Dartford and Gravesham health authority direct after it is established on 1 April 1982.

Mrs. Renée Short

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what progress is being made in moving the mentally handicapped out of Darenth Park hospital in Kent; what numbers are currently there; when he expects the hospital to close; and if he will make a statement

Mr. Geoffrey Finsberg

The number of residents has been reduced from 1,019 in December 1977 to 782 on 1 February 1982. South East Thames regional health authority on present plans expects to reduce the total to 250 by December 1986. No date for closure has yet been set.

Mrs. Renée Short

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he will investigate the conditions at Darenth Park hospital in Kent.

Mr. Geoffrey Flnsberg

No. This hospital will become the responsibility of the new Dartford and Gravesham health authority on 1 April 1982 and it will be for that authority to consider whether conditions at this and other hospitals in the district are satisfactory, and what improvements can be made within the resources available.