§ Gregory BarkerTo ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) what representations his Department has received concerning the success of the 'education and support programme for district and community nurses in the principles and practice of palliative care; [75808]
666W(2) how many proposals have been received for the 'education and support programme for district and community nurses in the principles and practice of palliative care': and what the source of these proposals was. [75809]
§ Ms BlearsFunding of £6 million over three years has been made available to train and support district and community nurses in the principles and practice of palliative care. Bids were invited in April 2001 with one project from each cancer network being chosen. The projects were required to reflect collaboration between education provider(s); training recipients; specialist palliative healthcare professionals; and education consortia/confederations and demonstrate a multi-professional approach to the training provision. Details of the projects can be found on the web at www.doh.gov/cancer/edusup.htm
We are in the second year of the programme. All reports received so far suggest that the project is proving beneficial and is being well received by district and community nurses. The project will be evaluated.