Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Stephen Kinnock and Sarah Smith

Tuesday 25th November 2025 Commons Chamber

[Stephen Kinnock]

I thank the right hon. Gentleman for that question. I met the GDC recently. It has completed the procurement of the new management agent to run the overseas registration examination, and I am confident that we will see a significant boost in the numbers—that is coming onstream very quickly. However, I agree with the right hon. Gentleman: it has been too slow, and it needs to speed up.

[Sarah Smith (Hyndburn) (Lab)]

About 38% of children in my constituency are sadly growing up in poverty. This Government are committed to ensuring the best start in life for all children, so in addition to the increase in mental health support teams in schools, does the NHS workforce plan currently address the vital need for trained specialist community public health nurses in schools?

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Stephen Kinnock and Sarah Smith

Tuesday 21st October 2025 Commons Chamber

[Sarah Smith (Hyndburn) (Lab)]

As you may be aware, Mr Speaker, Reform-led Lancashire county council has opened a consultation on the future of care homes across Lancashire, including the proposal to close Woodlands care home in my constituency of Hyndburn. Will the Minister join me in urging Lancashire county council not to take forward these proposals, to protect much-valued local services, and to keep care close to the community and to the amazing staff who support our residents in Woodlands care home?

[Stephen Kinnock]

I absolutely agree. It has been very interesting to see that all the rhetoric of many Reform-led councils has come crashing down as they face the reality of the situation. Adult social care plays an absolutely vital role in the shift from hospital to community, and I am very happy to meet my hon. Friend to discuss the matter further.

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Stephen Kinnock and Sarah Smith

Tuesday 25th March 2025 Commons Chamber

[Stephen Kinnock]

My hon. Friend will be aware that we are bringing forward the Mental Health Bill, and an important part of that legislation will enable family members—when they are chosen as a nominated person—to have powers to request assessment under the Act, challenge decisions and request considerations of discharge in line with the nearest relative powers.

[Sarah Smith (Hyndburn) (Lab)]

13. What steps he is taking to ensure special educational and disability needs are met by the NHS.