HC Deb 29 October 1999 vol 336 cc1029-30W
Mr. Robertson

To ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will list the category of persons who are admitted to(a) nursing homes and (b) residential care homes who are required to pay for their accommodation and care; and if he will make a statement. [95718]

Mr. Hutton

[holding answer 26 October 1999]: Where a person is provided with accommodation under Part III of the National Assistance Act 1948, section 22 of that Act provides for them to be charged for the accommodation. Part III places a duty on local authorities to provide accommodation: for persons aged 18 or over who, by reason of age, illness, disability or any other circumstances are in need of care and attention which is not otherwise available to them; for expectant or nursing mothers who are in need of care and attention which is not otherwise available to them.

Section 22 requires the local authority to set a standard rate for the accommodation.

The National Health Service may fund placements in nursing homes for people who are eligible for continuing NHS in-patient care.