§ Mr. Georgeasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what information he has on the number of staff in residential institutions who have been seconded for full-time training by Walsall social services for each year since 1971; how many such staff are currently undertaking full-time study in England and Wales; and if he will make a statement on the need for qualified social workers in residential establishments.
390W
§ Mr. MoyleIn the year ending 31st July 1977, in England and Wales 241* staff of community homes and 65* staff of other residential homes and hostels started a period of full time seconded training on courses lasting three months or more, representing approximately 1.7 per cent. and 0.6 per cent. respectively of the whole-time care staff. No staff in these categories were seconded for training by Walsall social services department during the two years ending 31st July 1977. No figures are available in the form requested for earlier years.
In my reply to the hon. Member for Croydon, Central (Mr. Moore) on 28th June 1977—[Vol. 934, c. 157]—I gave details of the percentages of qualified staff in residential establishments. The present percentages are too low. Of course, not all need to have formal qualifications, although all require in-service training appropriate to the task.
Whilst we cannot expect a rapid increase in qualified staff the position is improving. Over 50 courses leading to the certificate of qualification in social work now offer training for residential work. 14 schemes leading to the new Certificate in Social Services have now been established and over 20 schemes should be in operation by 1979. Most of these schemes are designed for staff in residential establishments.
* Provisional figures.