§ Mr. HancockTo ask the Secretary of State for Health when the group looking at workplace issues will report; what the membership of the group is; what its terms of reference are; and if he will make a statement. [142173]
§ Dr. LadymanThe long term conditions care group work force team (LTCCGWT) is responsible for increasing the capacity of the work force supporting the delivery of neurology, diabetes, renal and dermatology services. The LTCCGWT is a multi-disciplinary advisory body working in support of the National Workforce Development Board and the Workforce Numbers Advisory Board in drawing up national workforce strategies. It takes a national view of the health and social care workforce pressures and priorities for the long-term conditions client group. Each year the LTCCGWT produces a report setting out its recommendations on work force issues, such as the need for increased numbers of staff and also new ways of working, including skill mix, role extensions and multi-disciplinary working, based around patient needs. This report, along with those from the other six CGWTs forms the overall report to the June meeting of the Workforce Numbers Advisory Board. The 2003 reports from the CGWTs will be published shortly for distribution to strategic health authorities and workforce development confederations. The reports will also be available on the CGWT website, together with details of the group's membership and terms of reference. The website address is: http://www.doh.gov.uk/cgwt/.