§ 2. Mr. Buchananasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what extra back-up resources in terms of trained staff and residential accommodation have been provided in the Glasgow area to cope with young offenders within the terms of the Social Work (Scotland) Act 1968.
§ Mr. Robert HughesThe number of headquarters and field-work staff in Glasgow social work department has increased from 186 in 1970 to over 300. A number of projects providing residential accommodation for children and young people are in progress, and additional places are being provided at two List D schools near Glasgow.
§ Mr. BuchananIt is gratifying to hear that some improvement is being made, but my hon. Friend will understand that many social work departments are losing credibility because the social workers do not have enough remedial places to which to send children requiring help, and that we are abysmally short of residential accommodation, hostel accommodaion and specialist resources. Will he do everything in his power to see that the social workers get the tools to do the job?
§ Mr. HughesYes. Additional accommodation is in prospect. For example, a unit of 18 places is being built at St. 349 Mary's School, Bishopbriggs, and 41 additional places are being provided at St. Philip's School, Aidrie.
The report on the rate support grant order shows that there is allowance for increased staffing during the year, and other commitments. Certainly we shall encourage local authorities to give the back-up which the social workers require.
§ Mr. FairbairnWhat regulations apply to those who are in List D schools as to the age at which they are allowed to get out of the schools, on what conditions they are allowed to come out of the schools, what sums of money are given to them when they leave the schools, and what other regulations apply to these people?
§ Mr. HughesI think that the hon. and learned Gentleman should table a Question seeking that information.