Michael Ring
Question:663 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children the maximum number of home help hours that can be given to a person who needs maximum care and attention. [1772/01]
Written Answers. - Home Help Scheme.
The home help scheme is operated in a flexible manner and there is no stipulation in regard to the maximum number of hours which may be provided. The number of hours to be provided will depend on the outcome of the individual needs assessment, and having regard to resources available for the service within the particular health board.
I regard the home help service as an integral part of community support services for older people and additional funding has been provided in recent years to improve the service. It is my intention that the development of the home help service will continue to receive priority so that it can be extended to cover more older people who need this important service.