§ 65. Mrs. Doris Fisherasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what action he is taking to provide the approved schools with the professional skills and other resources that would enable them to accept seriously disturbed adolescents and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. AlisonApproved schools already accept seriously disturbed adolescents in the care of local authorities, but I recognise that in particular cases a local authority may have difficulty in finding a place. Proposals from approved school managers for strengthening their resources in this regard are always sympathetically considered by my Department. When approved schools become community homes under local authorities' regional plans the authority or organisation which manages the home will be responsible for providing staff and other resources. From the regional plans, which are now before my right hon. Friend for approval, it is clear that local authorities intend to continue the progress which has been made under the approved school system. Opportunities for education and training in social work continue to expand under the aegis of the Central Council.