HC Deb 11 March 1994 vol 239 c447W
Ms Primarolo

To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many additional medium secure beds, respite care or haven type beds and general psychiatric beds will now be made available.

Mr. Bowis

On 31 January 1993 there were 635 places available in medium secure units and a further 250 interim medium secure places. The Government have invested over £45 million from centrally held funds for capital development in this area since 1991–92. Together with additional funds made available by health authorities, this will provide approximately 500 further places over the next two or three years. Future levels of provision will be considered in the light of assessments of need undertaken within regions. In 1980 there were 30 such places.

It is for health authorities to decide how best to meet the needs of their residents, including those who suffer from mental health problems. This would include sufficient in-patient facilities for those who need admission to hospital on either a short or long-term basis.