§ Mr. Andrew BowdenTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will list the health programmes for elderly people which currently have the support of his Department.
§ Mr. FreemanThe Department, in partnership with leading voluntary groups, organises and funds the "Keep Warm Keep Well" campaign, offering advice on how to keep warm in winter. Among the voluntary groups awarded grant aid under section 64 of the Health Services and Public Health Act 1968, those offering health promotion activities or advice include EXTEND (on exercise and fitness), the National Osteoporosis Society, Age Exchange Theatre Company (programmes of mental stimulation) and the Newcastle Council for the Disabled and the Disabled Living Services in Manchester (both for projects on incontinence). We have also welcomed the work of the "Age Well" campaign, organised jointly by Age Concern England and the Health Education Authority, and that of the Centre for Health and Retirement Education, organised through the Health Education Authority and the university of London. The "Age Well" campaign has been allocated a grant this year as part of the disbursement of the moneys arising from the effect of the retail prices index calculation error on social security benefits.
§ Mr. Andrew BowdenTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what guidance he has given to the Health Education Authority regarding the future development of the health in old age programme.
§ Mr. FreemanThe Health Education Authority is currently preparing its strategic plan for the next five years. The planning guidelines issued to the Health Education604W Authority ask it to take account of the elderly in its forward planning process. The strategic plan is due to be submitted to the Department of Health by October.