§ Mr. Barry JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales (1) what policy initiatives he proposes to assist carers;
(2) what measures he intends to introduce to increase respite care.
§ Mr. Nicholas BennettWe have made clear in all our policy and practice guidance the high priority which should be given to the support of carers and the development of respite care, which can benefit significantly both those in need of care and their families.
It is for local and health authorities to decide what services should be provided to meet the assessed needs of their local populations. They are expected to address these needs in county plans produced under the all-Wales mental illness and mental handicap strategies, in social care plans and in local strategies for health.
In support of these programmes, grants are available from the Welsh Office under certain schemes which are unique to Wales—the mental handicap and mental illness strategies. A new scheme to promote the development of more flexible forms of community care for elderly people and for people with physical or sensory disabilities has also been introduced. We are also continuing to support schemes under our earlier initiative for the elderly.
895WPlanned expenditure on these programmes in 1991–92 is nearly £43 million compared with some £32 million last year.
§ Mr. Barry JonesTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will list the respite care locations in Wales.
§ Mr. Nicholas BennettThis information is not held centrally.