§ Mr. LlwydTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what recent representations he has received on extending the advocacy system for disabled people to the disabled in hospital; and if he will make a statement. [121725]
§ Mr. HuttonWe are not aware of any recent representations on extending the advocacy system for disabled people to the disabled in hospital.
Models of advocacy have been explored as part of the development of a New National Health Service Charter. This work, including the advocacy role in the NHS, is now being considered as part of the work of the Modernisation (Patient Empowerment) Action Team. The modernisation action teams will produce a National Plan for the NHS in July.
§ Mr. BoswellTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what plans he has to ensure equal access to the NHS census for disabled people through alternative formats. [125121]
§ Mr. HuttonIn the week leading up to National Health Service census day on 31 May 2000, 12 million consultation leaflets were made available at supermarkets, high street chemists and other NHS facilities. It was also published on the worldwide web. For those who may have had difficulty reading the text or completing the form in these formats, the leaflet was also made available on tape with the facility to either record responses on that tape or by dictating over the telephone.