§ 39. Mr. Hunterasked the Secretary of State for Social Services if he proposes to increase resources for the provision of care in the community for the mentally handicapped and their families.
§ Mr. NewtonHealth authorities' strategic plans envisage continued growth in overall expenditure on mentally handicapped people. Most regional health authorities have developed their own funding arrangements to assist the development of community services. Joint finance can also be used on extended terms if necessary. We are keeping an open mind about whether any further steps may be necessary.
The provision for personal social services in the rate support grant settlement for 1987–88 includes an extra £27 million for the development of community care generally. Decisions on priorities for local government spending are the responsibility of individual local authorities.
Social security costs will inevitably rise as normal benefits for people remaining in or returning to the community replace the personal allowances paid in hospital.
As my hon. Friend will be aware, the Government have asked Sir Roy Griffiths to undertake a review of community care, and to advise on options that would contribute to more effective care. This review will include consideration of whether the public funds used to support the community care policy are giving the best value for money, whether they are properly targeted, and whether the people assisted are being given the help most appropriate to their needs. The Government look forward to the completion of this review towards the end of the year.