HC Deb 28 January 2003 vol 398 c809W
Mr. Burstow

To ask the Secretary of State for Health what training is provided within the health and social services system on attention deficit hyperactivity for workers with personal contact with sufferers. [93163]

Jacqui Smith

In recent years, the Department has supported a number of initiatives taken by professional bodies and other agencies to raise awareness of attention deficit disorder (ADD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and to facilitate accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. These include an evidence-based briefing for clinicians on the use of stimulant medication (1999) and fact-sheets for parents, teachers and young people on attention deficit problems and hyperactivity, both produced by the Royal College of Psychiatrists.

We have also collaborated with the Department for Education and Skills in issuing guidance for teachers on promoting children's mental health, including attention deficit/hyperactivity, within early years and school settings, in 2001. The Department has also grant-aided the ADHD UK Alliance, an organisation which helps to co-ordinate voluntary sector activity and development work in this field.

In general the content of professional training is a matter for the relevant professional bodies. However the Department's requirements for social work training from September 2003 will include elements covering child development and mental health and communication skills with children.