HC Deb 09 June 1988 vol 134 cc668-9W
Mr. Wigley

To ask the Secretary of State for Social Services what representations he has received concerning the difficulties encountered by people dependent on social security benefits in securing assistance towards travelling costs for journeys to visit close relatives in hospital; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Portillo

A few representations have been received. Community care grants are available to income support claimants in certain circumstances for the cost of fares to visit a relative in hospital. Guidance and directions for the award of such payments appear in the social fund manual which was published in November 1987. A copy is in the Library.