§ Lady HermonTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement on provision for those with eating disorders in Northern Ireland. [142673]
§ Angela SmithMy Department carried out a review and consultation exercise on eating disorders services. The results of this were issued in March 2003. The major points are the need to: develop services at all levels; increase emphasis on prevention and early detection; carry out further research/assessment of need; provide significant training for statutory and voluntary sector providers; and provide local inpatient unit and outreach services.
A multi-agency representative Eating Disorders Group has been established to take these recommendations forward and an Action Point has also been included in the Priorities for Action 2003/2004.
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§ Mrs. Iris RobinsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what progress has been made in recruiting a consultant psychiatrist with a special interest in eating disorders to replace Dr Clare Adams. [142700]
§ Angela SmithA doctor with a special interest in eating disorders is at present undergoing specialist training, which it is expected will be completed by August 2004.