Written question asked by Jim Cunningham (Labour) on Wednesday, 20 December 2000, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 8 January 2001. It was answered by Baroness Stuart of Edgbaston (Labour) on Monday, 8 January 2001 on behalf of the Department of Health.

Dept of Health

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Health, if advocacy, liaison and facilitation will be core functions of the Patients Advocacy Liaison Service.

Answer: Mr. Jim Cunningham: To ask the Secretary of State for Health if advocacy, liaison and facilitation will be core functions of the Patients Advocacy Liaison Service. [144191] Ms Stuart: Patient advocacy and liaison services will be available in all trusts and will act as a welcoming point for patients and carers and as a clearly identifiable information point. They will act as a facilitator to handle patient and family concerns, and have direct access to the chief executive and the power to negotiate immediate solutions. Where necessary, they will steer patients and families towards the complaints process and additional independent advocacy support.

Secondary information