§ Mr. ParryTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what assessment her Department has made of the factors which result in low birth weight of children born to mothers resident in bed-and-breakfast accommodation in receipt of income support.
§ Mr. SackvilleStudies have shown that there are many factors associated with low birth weight. It is difficult to identify individual risk factors which may be significant in particular circumstances, for instance, women living in bed-and-breakfast accommodation. However, the importance of a balanced diet for the general health and well-being of pregnant women and their children has long been recognised and for that reason, pregnant women receiving income support are entitled to free milk and supplementary vitamins. Other important considerations are timely access to antenatal care and advice from relevant health professionals and reducing smoking in pregnancy, the latter being a significant factor in weight differences between babies. As a priority for 1992–93, the chief executive of the National Health Service Management Executive has asked all health authorities to focus on measures to reduce smoking in pregnancy and to improve women's access to maternity services. A number of innovative schemes have been introduced by health authorities across the country to improve access to maternity care for women living in the inner city. A scheme in Mersey region, based at the Princes Park health centre in Toxteth, is directing services specifically at women living in bed-and-breakfast and hostel accommodation.