§ Mr. LivingstoneTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Services what is his policy on the future of Shenley 125W hospital; if there is a closure date; what is the most recent figure for the population in Shenley; and how many patients have been there for more than five years.
§ Mrs. CurrieThe aim of our policy in the mental health field is that every health district should provide a comprehensive range of services for mentally ill people, from long-term in-patient care for the severely and chronically ill to domiciliary support for those who can live near normal lives at home.
The latest figures held centrally for the numbers of in-patients in Shenley hospital is 805, as at 31 December 1986. Figures are not available centrally on the length of stay of resident in-patients. The hon. Member may wish to contact the chairman of Parkside health authority for information on plans for the future of Shenley hospital, and detailed local statistics.