§ Mr. Kilroy-Silkasked the Secretary of State for Wales what progress is being made in establishing a regional secure psychiatric unit in Wales.
§ Mr. Wyn RobertsThe Welsh Office issued a consultation paper in June this year entitled "Proposals for Consultation on the provision of Medium Secure Therapeutic Units in Wales: Policy Appraisal". This reassessed the demand for psychiatric facilities for those who need care in conditions of greater security than is usually provided at local psychiatric hospitals but less than that provided at the special hospitals. It also considered how the estimated demand might best be met over the next 10 years. The paper, a copy of which is in the Library, concluded that in addition to the existing secure provision at North Wales hospital, Denbigh, which has been funded by the Welsh Office, there should be across Wales three or four additional units each of 15 to 20 beds.
We are considering carefully the comments which have recently been received on the document, and when my right hon. Friend has taken decisions a further appraisal will be conducted to determine the most appropriate siting. There will then be further public consultation on the proposals.
Approval has also been given to an 11-bed expansion of Garth Angharad hospital, near Dolgellau. This will be centrally funded and run as a regional service. It offers a valuable facility for young people whose special psychiatric needs cannot be catered for at local hospitals.