§ 17. Mrs. Ann WintertonTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what steps he is taking to increase access to drug rehabilitation programmes in Wales. [50284]
§ Mr. Win GriffithsAccess to drug and alcohol rehabilitation programmes is primarily a matter for local authorities and health authorities as the main purchasers of these services on behalf of individual clients. In the light of concern about the level of referrals by purchasers to residential rehabilitation services in Wales, the Department has commissioned an independent review of purchasing requirements for, and the provision of, drug and alcohol residential and community facilities in Wales. A report of the outcomes of this review should be available in September. In the meantime, the Department provides direct funding in support of voluntary organisations which provide residential facilities offering treatment and rehabilitation to those misusing drugs and alcohol.