HC Deb 11 July 1994 vol 246 cc416-7W
Dr. Lynne Jones

To ask the Secretary of State for Health how the leadership programme for top managers in mental health will be delivered, so as to develop inspirational leadership, creative thinking, and enhancement of the personal abilities of senior staff; and what contribution carers of severely mentally ill people will make to this programme.

Mr. Bowis

The programme will be delivered by means of three, three-day residential workshops held over a period of nine months; and by the pursuit of individual goals and objectives within each participant's organisation; supported by networking activities between participants. The programme, which commenced in May, will evolve in response to the needs of the individual participants. It is probable that, in due course, it will include a contribution from both users of mental health services and their carers.

Mr. McCartney

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what guidance she has issued regarding the post-registration experience and training appropriate in the management and care of mentally disordered persons with behaviours that may challenge for(a) nurses with a learning disability mental health registration and (b) doctors with a registration in psychiatry.

Mr. Bowis

The United Kingdom Central Council for Nursing, Midwifery and Health Visiting has statutory responsibility for determining the kind, standard and content of training courses leading to registration, and further courses for those already registered, as nurses, midwives and health visitors. Statutory responsibility for validating and approving courses and institutions rests with the four national boards. Standards of education and training for psychiatrists are the responsibility of the Royal College of Psychiatrists.