Parliamentary Search

Written question asked by Baroness Merron (Labour) on Wednesday, 6 March 2024, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 20 March 2024. It was answered by Lord Markham (Conservative) on Wednesday, 13 March 2024 on behalf of the Department of Health and Social Care.

Facial Palsy: Health Services

Question

To ask His Majesty's Government whether they plan to respond to the survey by Facial Palsy UK published on 1 March, and if so when; and what assessment they have made of the fact that nearly 90 per cent of respondents called for a clearer understanding of which type of specialist provides care for patients with facial palsy.

Answer

Disability within the Equality Act 2010 is not defined through each specific condition, but rather in general terms. The general definition of disability, for the purposes of the act, is a physical or mental impairment which has a substantial and long-term adverse effect on a person's ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities.

A person with facial paralysis or facial palsy may experience difficulties with communication, which may have a substantial and long-term effect, in accordance with the act. The Government is committed to supporting everyone’s mental health and wellbeing, and ensuring that the right support is in place, including for those with health conditions such as Bell’s palsy.

We have made it clear to local commissioners that we expect NHS Talking Therapies to be integrated into physical healthcare pathways. Our NHS Long Term Plan commits to an additional £2.3 billion a year for the expansion of mental health services by 2024, so that an additional two million people, including those with Bell’s palsy, can access National Health Service-funded mental health support. The Department received Facial Palsy UK’s survey on pathways of care for people with facial palsy on 27 February 2024. We will reply as soon as possible.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
HL3076
Session
2023-24
Grouped for answer
Yes
Subjects
Health services Facial palsy
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk