Oral Answers to Questions

Angela Watkinson Excerpts

Tuesday 17th November 2015 Commons Chamber

[Jane Ellison]

I have had conversations with my opposite numbers in Scotland about this issue and, as the hon. Gentleman knows, Shona Robison wrote to me about it. We are looking at her proposals in the context of wider scheme reform. I have also ensured that my officials are talking to the other devolved Administrations as we move forward to a better solution to this tragedy.

[Dame Angela Watkinson (Hornchurch and Upminster) (Con)]

14. What progress has been made on integrating and improving care provided outside of hospitals.

[The Minister for Community and Social Care (Alistair Burt)]

The Government are committed to transforming out-of-hospital care for everyone, in every community, by 2020. We have seen excellent progress in areas led by integration pioneers, such as South Devon and Torbay. My hon. Friend’s own area also has in place a number of initiatives, such as the community treatment team and intensive rehabilitation service, which is rated very highly in her local community.

[Dame Angela Watkinson]

My right hon. Friend will be aware that elderly people deteriorate rapidly and lose their independence skills when they are admitted to hospital. What discussions have been held with local authorities to ensure that there is an adequate supply of carers to enable older people to remain in their homes whenever possible?