HC Deb 05 May 2000 vol 349 cc221-2W
Mr. Andrew George

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what plans he has to include standards relevant to the provision of domiciliary services to deafblind people, including communicator-guide and intervenor services, in the domiciliary care standards under development by his Department. [120414]

Mr. Hutton

We are currently considering the needs of all those receiving domiciliary services with a view to publishing a consultation document later this year. The standards will be the minimum core standards required for registration with the National Care Standards Commission. However, providers should be able to demonstrate that appropriate personal care is delivered to the required standards.

Mr. Andrew George

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what plans he has to consult deafblind users of domiciliary care services, including communicator-guide and intervenor services, in relation to the setting of domiciliary care standards. [120415]

Mr. Hutton

We are currently considering the needs of all those receiving domiciliary care services with a view to publishing a consultation document later this year. A core steering group and a wider reference group have developed the draft national minimum standards and a User Forum was held in January 2000.

Mr. Andrew George

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what plans he has to include standards relevant to deaf blind people in the care standards for residential services for adults. [120416]

Mr. Hutton

We are planning to include standards relevant to deaf blind people in the national standards for care homes for adults with disabilities and special needs. Relevant interests have been consulted. The standards are being drafted and will be published for consultation later this year.