§ Rev. Ian PaisleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland on what figure for the numbers of people in private and independent homes at 31 March 1993 he based his budget; what was the actual figure for capacity on that date; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. AncramThe amounts of money to transfer from the social security budget to health and social services boards for community care were calculated on the basis of the estimated numbers of income support claimants resident in independent sector residential and nursing homes at mid-year in each of the financial years 1993–94,56W 1994–95 and 1995–96. The estimated numbers of such residents for each of these years were 11,112, 13,247 and 15,382 respectively. The total number of residents in independent sector homes at 31 March 1993 is not known.
Details of the transfer calculation were explained in a memorandum widely distributed throughout Northern Ireland in December 1992. A copy has been placed in the Library.
§ Rev. Ian PaisleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what figure his Department has arrived at for placement of persons in homes for the elderly; and what involvement independent sector providers had in the selection of this figure.
§ Mr. AncramThere is no pre-determined figure for the numbers to be placed in homes for elderly people. The number of people placed in residential and nursing homes by health and social services boards will be determined by the outcome of comprehensive assessments of patients' and clients' need for community care. Where care in residential or nursing home settings is indicated this will be arranged.