§ Mr. HoyleTo ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) what funding is available from his Department for physiotherapy services for schools; [37218]
(2) what guidance he has given to health authorities on the provision of physiotherapy services in schools. [37216]
§ Mr. BoatengThe Department has not given specific guidance to health authorities on the provision of physiotherapy services in schools. The detailed provision and funding of such services is a matter for health commissioners in light of the health needs of their local populations. The Department recognises the essential contribution therapists make to the assessment, development, education and treatment of children with health needs and disabilities. Officials from the Department and the Department of Education and Employment are currently examining ways to facilitate collaboration between the National Health Service and local education authorities, following the response to the Green Paper, Excellence for all Children: Meeting Special Educational Needs.
§ Mr. HoyleTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what research his Department has commissioned and evaluated on the numbers of children in schools requiring physiotherapy and occupational therapy to assist with physical problems. [37217]
§ Ms JowellThe Department's policy research programme and the central National Health Service research and development programmes are not currently supporting any research on the numbers of children in schools requiring physiotherapy and occupational therapy to assist with physical problems, due to pressure of other priorities.