§ Mr. McCrindleasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he remains satisfied with the progress of his policy of transferring mentally handicapped persons into the community where possible; what steps he proposes to ensure that suitable premises are available for the purpose; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. WhitneyGenerally, yes. The policy is not simply relocation of people, but re-orientation of services and better quality of life. Particular issues that arise are pursued by comments on plans, the annual ministerial accountability reviews of regional health authorities, and so on. It is the responsibility of health authorities, working with local authorities, to plan and provide an appropriate range of residential and other services in the community for mentally handicapped people transferred from hospital to community care. Individuals should be the subject of joint, multi-disciplinary assessment before transfer to ensure that their particular needs are met.