Written question asked by Jonathan Shaw (Labour) on Tuesday, 19 July 2005, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 21 July 2005. It was answered by Liam Byrne (Labour) on Monday, 12 September 2005 on behalf of the Department of Health.

National Service Frame for Older People

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Health whether the national service framework for older people remains a 10-year programme; and if she will make a statement.

Answer: The key themes and principles of the national service framework (NSF) for older people remain extant. It was always envisaged that such a significant and far-reaching programme of action would take 10 years to realise fully.The action milestone dates set out in the NSF have now been passed. In addition, new policy initiatives pertinent to the development of older people's service have been and are being developed. Further, since ““Shifting the Balance of Power””, local health and social care organisations now have greater flexibility in commissioning and providing services. In recognition of these changes since the launch of the NSF in 2001, Ian Philp, national director responsible for older people's services at the Department, will, in the autumn, present a ““Next steps”” document, suggesting how the significant momentum that has been generated since the launch of the NSF can be maintained.

Secondary information