§ Rev. Martin SmythTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (1) how many trauma counselling specialists are currently employed by the Department of Health and Social Services;
(2)if he will make a statement on the availability of immediate and expert post-trauma counselling services for people affected by terrorism.
§ Mr. AncramNo counselling specialists are currently employed by the Department of Health and Social Services. However, in each of the four health and social services boards, social work staff are available to provide immediate and post trauma counselling services for people affected by terrorism. These counselling services are mainly provided by volunteer social workers with special skills and training. The Voluntary Bereavement Counselling Agency—CRUSE—also offers help to people affected by terrorism.
464WBangor; and Cairns house, Old See house, Enler house, James Dixon house, and Marlborough house, all of which are in Belfast.
The Government's strategy is to build up domiciliary services so that a greater proportion of elderly people can remain in their own homes if they so wish. The Government also wish to achieve a new balance between services provided directly by the statutory sector and those offered by independent providers.
Mr. John D. TaylorTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland at what locations there are residential homes controlled by the Eastern health and social services board; and how many residents each of these homes accommodate.
§ Mr. AncramThe information requested is as follows: