(1 week, 3 days ago)
Commons Chamber Sarah Smith (Hyndburn) (Lab)
    
        
    
    
    
    
    
        
        
        
            Sarah Smith (Hyndburn) (Lab) 
        
    
        
    
        As you may be aware, Mr Speaker, Reform-led Lancashire county council has opened a consultation on the future of care homes across Lancashire, including the proposal to close Woodlands care home in my constituency of Hyndburn. Will the Minister join me in urging Lancashire county council not to take forward these proposals, to protect much-valued local services, and to keep care close to the community and to the amazing staff who support our residents in Woodlands care home?
 Stephen Kinnock
        
    
    
    
    
    
        
        
        
            Stephen Kinnock 
        
    
        
    
        I absolutely agree. It has been very interesting to see that all the rhetoric of many Reform-led councils has come crashing down as they face the reality of the situation. Adult social care plays an absolutely vital role in the shift from hospital to community, and I am very happy to meet my hon. Friend to discuss the matter further.
(7 months ago)
Commons Chamber Stephen Kinnock
        
    
    
    
    
    
        
        
        
            Stephen Kinnock 
        
    
        
    
        My hon. Friend will be aware that we are bringing forward the Mental Health Bill, and an important part of that legislation will enable family members—when they are chosen as a nominated person—to have powers to request assessment under the Act, challenge decisions and request considerations of discharge in line with the nearest relative powers.
 Sarah Smith (Hyndburn) (Lab)
    
        
    
    
    
    
    
        
        
        
            Sarah Smith (Hyndburn) (Lab)