§ Mrs. Chalkerasked the Secretary of State for Social Services (1) if he will publish the number of places in local authority residential homes, by regional planning area, for children and young people: (a) who have been placed in authority care after appearance before the courts and (b) who have simply been taken into care for their own protection;
(2) if he will make a statement on his policy towards mixing juvenile offenders and children only needing residential care due to domestic disruption at home in the same community homes.
§ Mr. MoyleThe Children and Young Persons Act 1969 combined approved schools, childrens homes and other establishments for children and young people into an integrated system of community homes for children in the care of local authorities. If a child requires residential treatment, it is for the local authority to determine which home is most likely to meet his individual needs, giving first consideration to the need to safeguard and promote the welfare of the child, irrespective of the reason for his entry into care. I am glad to say that after initial difficulties local authorities are now operating this system with increasing confidence and skill. Because of this places are not allocated separately for children and young people who have been taken into care following court appearances and those in care for other reasons.