Clause 12 - Free provision of certain community care services
Community Care (Delayed Discharges etc.) Bill
3:45 pm
Ms Jacqui Smith (Minister of State, Department of Health; Redditch, Labour)
Right. The hon. Gentleman is probing our intentions, and the important thing is that we set up a legislative system that lets local social services decide what community equipment is suitable, while ensuring that no charge is made. We intend to use regulations to provide a broad definition of aids and minor adaptations, and to leave social services the discretion that they now enjoy to provide the most appropriate services. We have consulted on the details of the regulations, and we will want to consult further.