Question to the Department of Health and Social Care:

To ask Her Majesty’s Government what step they are taking to ensure appropriate and timely access to communication support for persons living with Motor Neurone Disease.

Since 1 April 2013, NHS England has been responsible for commissioning augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) aids for patients with complex disability, such as motor neurone disease. Prior to this, there was no national AAC service which resulted in variation in provision of specialised AAC services and inequitable access for patients.

As the commissioner of specialised AAC services, NHS England is committed to improving access to the specialist assessments and equipment. Over the past two years it has worked hard to assess the levels of specialised AAC provision and levels of need and agree contracts with providers to deliver the new, national service. NHS England has allocated a £15 million recurring budget for the commissioning of AAC services for 2015/16 which builds on a part year allocation provided in 2014/15. All 13 AAC providers are accepting referrals and assessments are being offered to patients. Priority is being given to patients who have a life limiting condition and providers are working to ensure patients have timely access to assessment and services.