Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Will Quince and Mark Menzies

Tuesday 17th October 2023 Commons Chamber

[Will Quince]

My hon. Friend makes a powerful case, and I know how passionate and determined he is to deliver the new Thornbury health centre. I can assure him that my officials will continue to work closely with him, with the integrated care board and with the NHS to progress the scheme. We will be in contact in the coming days, following the meeting he had earlier today with Lord Markham.

[Mark Menzies (Fylde) (Con)]

15. What recent steps his Department has taken to increase the availability of NHS dentistry services.

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Will Quince and Mark Menzies

Monday 30th November 2020 Commons Chamber

[Will Quince]

Although we recognise there are problem areas, it is worth noting that the majority of supported housing is provided by well-run registered social landlords with a strong social mission. These are regulated by the Regulator of Social Housing, for registered charities, or by the Charity Commission. But I do recognise that there is a problem, and I would be happy to meet the hon. Lady.

[Mark Menzies (Fylde) (Con)]

What steps her Department is taking to encourage businesses to participate in the kickstart scheme.

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Will Quince and Mark Menzies

Monday 13th May 2019 Commons Chamber

[Mark Menzies (Fylde) (Con)]

16. What steps the Government are taking to support ex-offenders into employment.

[The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Work and Pensions (Will Quince)]

The Government know that getting ex-offenders into work is a crucial part of rehabilitation. DWP prison work coaches and jobcentre work coaches provide tailored support to ex-offenders. The DWP works collaboratively with Ministry of Justice on its education and employment strategy, creating a system where prisoners are on a path to employment as soon as they enter prison.

[Mark Menzies]

People from all walks of life have to undergo work capability assessments, but ex-offenders have complex needs and often institutionalised experiences. What measures is my hon. Friend taking to ensure that the assessors themselves are taking the appropriate measures?

[Will Quince]

My hon. Friend raises a good point. Healthcare professionals are subject to a rigorous recruitment process, followed by a comprehensive training programme in disability assessment for physical and mental health conditions, and have to be approved by the Department. They are then required to complete a programme of continuing professional development.