HC Deb 25 July 1979 vol 971 cc308-9W
Mr. Temple-Morris

asked the Secretary of State for Social Services what is the number of places currently available for juvenile offenders in secure units, observation centres and long-stay community homes.

Sir George Young

The number of places available in England and Wales for children and young persons in the care of local authorities, including juvenile offenders, at the latest available dates is as followsCommunity homes with education—as at 30 September 1978: 6,900. Observation and assessment centres—as at 31 March 1977: 5,800 Other community homes—as at 31 March 1977: 29,200 Secure places in community homes—as at 1 June 1979: 370.

In addition, the Department provides two youth treatment centres for the most severely disturbed and disruptive young people. Twelve of the 32 places at St. Charles' youth treatment centre are secure. Glenthorne youth treatment centre, when fully in operation, will pro vide 54 secure places; 20 places are currently occupied.