Oral question asked in the House of Lords, by Baroness Barker (Liberal Democrat). It was answered on Wednesday, 6 May 2009.

Health: Chronic Pain

Question: My Lords, will the department enable staff of care homes and nursing homes to develop pain management skills above and beyond the administration of analgesic drugs?

Answer: My Lords, I think that the last time this issue was discussed in the House the noble Baroness mentioned the Help the Aged and Patients Association reports about older people. Of course, we believe that older people should be treated with dignity and respect and that they should receive appropriate and humane care in all care settings. Therefore, we welcome those two reports as important contributions to this debate. We will review the individual recommendations addressed to the Government in the light of advice and the discussion that is taking place with the National Quality Board.

Secondary information