Written question asked by Peter Robinson (Democratic Unionist Party) on Tuesday, 26 October 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 10 November 2004. It was answered by Baroness Smith of Basildon (Labour) on Wednesday, 10 November 2004 on behalf of the Northern Ireland Office.

Northern Ireland Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, how the health concerns of those with learning difficulties are represented in health equity audits in the Province.

Answer: Mr. Peter Robinson: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how the health concerns of those with learning difficulties are represented in health equity audits in the Province. [194524] Angela Smith: In Northern Ireland means other than health equality audits are used to assess the needs of people with learning disabilities, including specially commissioned research, engagement with relevant non- government organisations, consultations on new policies as they are being developed, and equality screening and equality impact assessments carried out on existing and emerging policies. The Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety is currently implementing a strategy to develop community learning disability services to resettle long- stay hospital patients, prevent inappropriate hospital admissions and re-admissions, and focus hospital services on assessment and acute short-term treatment. The Independent Review of Mental Health and Learning Disability (NI) will shape policy and service development over the next 10 to 15 years. The report of this review is expected to be submitted to the Department early in the new year. This will contain a number of recommendations to address the particular health needs of people with a learning disability.

Secondary information