§ David TaylorTo ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) what guidance has been given to NHS trusts on the provision of(a) appropriate clothing and (b) other personal items to patients with mental health problems on their return to the community; [163261]
(2) what guidance has been issued to NHS trusts on their responsibility for the provision of clothing to long-stay patients. [163262]
§ Ms Rosie Winterton[holding answer 24 March 2004]: As outlined in the National Service Framework for Mental Health (1999), trusts should ensure that appropriate organisational arrangements are in place to secure good standards of privacy and dignity for hospital patients.
The care programme approach requires patients' health and social care needs to be fully assessed and addressed in their care plans. Care plans should be reviewed regularly, particularly upon discharge from hospital. This principle is embodied in "Effective Care Co-ordination in Mental Health Services (1999)".
We would expect the trust to take account of the basic needs of the patient and asses these in the context of his or her wishes, the length of the hospital stay, and any other available resources.