Vol. 490 No. 4
94 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Health and Children if the issue of equality regarding services for people with a mental handicap has been brought to his attention; the considerations, if any, he has given this matter; the estimated funds required in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6704/98]
To achieve equality regarding services for persons with a mental handicap, it is necessary that service needs are identified, and plans for meeting those needs put in place. Services must also be flexible enough to change as their clients' needs change. To do this effectively accurate information is necessary on the numbers, locations and needs of those who require services. Effective planning structures are also essential. The national intellectual disability database is now providing the information required to plan for these service needs. The regional mental handicap co-ordinating committee structure works at local level to co-ordinate service developments and identify priority needs.
The Assessment of Need for Services to Persons with a Mental Handicap 1997-2001, which was published by my Department last year based on information from the database, sets out the level of unmet need and the changing pattern of need over the next few years. The assessment identified a requirement for 1,439 new residential-respite places and 1,036 new day places over the period in question, at a revenue cost of £63.5 million. There are also associated capital costs. As outlined in both Partnership 2000 for Inclusion, Employment and Competitiveness and An Action Plan for the Millennium, the Government is committed to the ongoing development of services to persons with a mental handicap in line with the needs outlined in that assessment. A total of £16 million additional revenue and capital funding was made available in 1998. Last December, I announced the formation of a £30 million capital programme for mental handicap services which will run over four years in tandem with the assessment of need. This programme is essential to ensure that the necessary physical infrastructure is in place to enable the new residential and day services to be provided.
