Care in the Community

HC Deb 23 February 1998 vol 307 cc87-8W

Mr. Öpik

To ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will make a statement on the public safety implications of Care in the Community. [30204]

Mr. Boateng

Care in the community has failed to deliver effective services for some people. We have to build a new basis of confidence and trust. We want to ensure that mentally ill people receive appropriate care and treatment, while safeguarding the public.

In recognition of the priority we accord to mental health services, we have established an Independent Reference Group to advise us on mental health issues; and have asked the Group, as its first priority, to consider the issue of the closure of the remaining long-stay mental hospitals to ensure that proper and credible alternative services are in place before closures take place.

Mr. Öpik

To ask the Secretary of State for Health how many murders have been committed by people treated under the Care in the Community policy; and if he will make a statement. [30205]

Mr. Boateng

Information is not available in the form requested.