§ The Countess of Marasked Her Majesty's Government:
What is their current policy towards joint projects by the National Health Service, personal social service departments and social security departments to provide care in the community for patients discharged from hospital.
§ The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department of Health and Social Security (Lord Skelmersdale)We strongly encourage joint working and planning between local authorities, health authorities and voluntary organisations in order to develop a co-ordinated range of services for people returning to the community who require care or support. Social security payments are available as individual entitlements in prescribed circumstances to assist people to return and remain in the community. Community care grants are also available through the Social Fund to help people receiving income support to lead independent lives in the community following discharge from hospital.