§ Mr. SimsTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what representation he has received about the plan by the Bethlem and Maudsley special health authority to reduce the range of services it offers, and the closure of Hilda Lewis house; if he will make additional funds available to the authority; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. DorrellThere are no plans to close Hilda Lewis house, nor are there any plans to reduce permanently the range of services offered by the special health authority (SHA). Earlier this year we received nine representations about the authority's plans to implement a number of temporary measures designed to make the most efficient use of its valuable clinical resources. We have now received a further three representations about Hilda Lewis house.
The changes taking place within Hilda Lewis house are part of a movement towards short-stay and outreach services within the community. This reflects a changing pattern of need and is in line with long-term objectives for the configuration of psychiatric care. Child and adolescent services make a heavy demand on resources and the SHA is aiming to continue to provide these very important services in the most effective and efficient way.
The SHA received a revenue allocation of £27.1 million in 1990–91. It benefited from the national average growth in resources which represents a cash increase of almost £2 million over 1989–90. It is for the health authority to decide how best to allocate these resources in providing the services required to support its national teaching and research role.