§ 28. Mr. Hannamasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what is his latest estimate of the cost per week of maintaining a severely handicapped child in the care of the local authority.
§ Mr. Alfred MorrisI regret that the information is not available centrally.
§ 44. Mr. Simsasked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether it is his policy to encourage the fostering of handicapped children.
§ Mr. EnnalsYes, where their needs can best be met in a foster home. The hon. Member will be glad to know that a number of local authorities and voluntary organisations have set up fostering schemes for handicapped children and that my Department's publication "Foster Care—A Guide to Practice" include guidance on foster care for these children. However, not all handicapped children are suitable for fostering; some who are very severely handicapped require special care and understanding which can best be provided in residential establishments having the staff facilities to meet these needs, though these children too may benefit from short periods, such as holidays, in foster care.
§ 56. Mr. Formanasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he is satisfied with NHS facilities for the care of handicapped children.
§ Mr. MoyleThe Court Committee in its recent Report (Cmnd. 6684) has emphasised that in its view there is an urgent need to improve health services for handicapped children and I am seeking the views of interested organisations and individuals on their recommendations.