HC Deb 13 November 2000 vol 356 cc567-8W
Mr. Harvey

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what steps his Department has taken to ensure closer working practices to help reduce effects of winter pressures between social services and acute NHS hospitals; and if he will make a statement. [137124]

Ms Stuart

In May 2000, the Department issued guidance to all National Health Service organisations and Social Services Departments setting out whole system arrangements to ensure that they, together, respond well to seasonal pressures, and provide high-quality services for local people throughout the year. In 2000–01, the Government have already invested an additional £63 million in intermediate care beds and staff to prevent avoidable hospital admissions, to facilitate prompt discharges from hospital, and to support independence and independent living, particularly for the elderly.

Local Winter Planning Groups (LWPGs) are in place across England to ensure that effective service and contingency planning is in place for winter 2000–01. The Department has assessed all LWPG winter plans and has put in place monitoring arrangements to ensure seasonal pressures are identified and addressed immediately. Expert teams of health and social care professionals are also visiting health and social care communities across England to provide support and advice, and to promote and share good practice.

Mr. Harvey

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what steps his Department has taken to disseminate best practice in dealing with winter pressures at(a) regional level, (b) health authority level, (c) trust level and (d) primary care group/trust level; and if he will make a statement. [137125]

Ms Stuart

Local Winter Planning Groups (LWPGs) have been established across England to ensure effective service and contingency planning for winter 2000–01. LWPGs include representatives of all National Health Service organisations, local councils with social services responsibilities and other local partners including the voluntary and independent sectors.

Best practice is disseminated through comprehensive guidance, national conferences, and visits by expert teams of health and social care professionals.