HC Deb 24 November 1969 vol 792 cc36-7W
Mr. Dempsey

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what consideration he has given to a building programme of hostels for mentally handicapped persons, in view of the urgent need for this service; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Ross

In a circular to local authorities in 1965, I recommended that a start should be made in providing hostel accommodation for employable mentally handicapped persons whose own homes were unsuitable and who were only in need of general supervision. Local authorities and voluntary bodies have so far provided four hostels or homes with a total of 165 places, and about 30 places will soon become available in two hostels to be opened. Local authorities have put forward proposals for five more hostels with about 80 places; although it has not so far been possible to include all these projects in the current building programme, I am anxious that additional provision of this kind should be made as soon as financial resources become available.