§ Mr. Foulkesasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what plans he has to deal with the money of long-stay patients now accumulating in long-term balances; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. John PattenA substantial proportion of the accumulating balances derives from social security benefits belonging to patients who are incapable of managing their own financial affairs and for whom health authorities have been appointed to act. We are currently preparing revised guidance for authorities on the payment, management and use of long-stay hospital patients' money. The aims of the guidance are to clarify the responsibilities involved and to help authorities to strike a balance between using the money flexibly to improve a patient's quality of life and maintaining the necessary safeguards to his interests. Work on the draft guidance is nearing completion and we hope to issue it for consultation shortly.