Written question asked by Andy King (Labour) on Tuesday, 10 July 2001, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 16 October 2001. It was answered by Baroness Smith of Malvern (Labour) on Tuesday, 16 October 2001 on behalf of the Department of Health.

Dept of Health

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Health, What plans he has to improve co-operation between health and social care. (Failed OPQ) - Inc figure.

Answer: Mr. Bailey: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what his plans are for improving co-operation between health and social care. [3781] Andy King: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what plans he has to improve co-operation between health and social care. [3784] Jacqui Smith: Improved co-operation is being encouraged through the Health Act 1999 flexibilities-- pooled funds, lead commissioning and integrated provision, especially in intermediate care, community equipment and nursing care. Care trusts can now be formed as single organisations, commissioning and providing both health and social care. Fifteen care trust demonstrator sites are preparing to go live from April 2002 to April 2003, receiving financial support for the preparatory period from the money recently announced to reduce bed blocking. Co-operation on the use of this money will be supported by the capacity planning being carried out by the local health and social care economy.

Secondary information