§ Mrs. Wiseasked the Secretary of State for Social Services whether he is yet able to make a further announcement about the setting up of the Intermediate Treatment Fund about which he spoke at the London Conference on Intermediate Treatment at Church House in June 1977.
§ Mr. EnnalsYes: I am glad to announce that the Rainer Foundation has agreed, at the Government's request, to administer an Intermediate Treatment Fund for England and Wales. The object of the fund is to enable volunteers, community groups and voluntary organisations to provide opportunities for children and young people in trouble or at risk to150W overcome their difficulties and fulfil their potential, for instance by developing constructive interests, forming satisfying personal relationships and exploring new environments. The fund will provide capital grants to individuals, groups or organisations who are willing to provide intermediate treatment facilities which local authorities are prepared to use i.e. current expenses would be met from fees for each child. The Government have agreed to support the fund for three years and are making an initial grant of £100,000. If suitable applications are forthcoming in sufficient numbers they are prepared to make an increase in the first year and to grant up to £200,000 in each of the second and third years. The Rather Foundation hopes to be able to invite applications in the near future.
Both the Rainer Foundation and I have had discussions with representatives of other philanthropic trusts. Many of them have welcomed our initiative and would be prepared to consider applications referred to them by the Rainer Foundation and to collaborate in the general aims of the fund. Many are already assisting intermediate treatment projects. The Rainer Foundation hopes to foster this trend and will be bringing the fund's objects to the notice of local trusts as well as building on links already established with national foundations.