§ Mr. FearnTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will make it his policy to introduce a statutory obligation for local authorities to provide housing for those covered by community care programmes.
§ Mr. YeoSocial services authorities will be responsible for community care assessments. Section 46(2) of the National Health Service and Community Care Act 1991 requires them to consult other agencies, including housing authorities, when drawing up their community care plans to meet the needs of their area. At the same time, housing authorities should consult social services authorities in preparing their own housing investment strategies each year. When making assessments for community care, social services authorities will be expected to involve the housing authority whenever an individual's assessment indicates a possible housing need. Those who are homeless and considered vulnerable would be protected under part III of the Housing Act 1985.
It does not follow that everyone who is assessed under the new community care arrangements will be in need of housing. There will be a majority who will be able to go on living in their existing homes with suitable domiciliary care or, perhaps, custom adaptations. Local authorities are able to award mandatory disabled facilities grants for essential adaptations where an applicant qualifies for help under the test of resources. Discretionary grants may also be available for other adaptations, including minor works assistance for the elderly.
We see no reason, therefore, to take new statutory powers.
§ Mr. FearnTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment when he last met representatives from Anchor housing association to discuss the development of sheltered housing schemes.