§ Mr. SpearingTo ask the Secretary of State for Health if he will state(a) the approximate costs of maintaining children in residential care in local authority and voluntary charitable institutions for children of (i) primary and (ii) secondary school age, (b) the approximate total expenditure by these bodies for the latest available years and (c) the net reduction in cost to public funds for each child fully adopted at the same ages. [24414]
§ Mr. Simon HughesTo ask the Secretary of State for Health (1) what research his Department has carried out to assess the educational standards of residents and ex-residents of residential children's homes; and what assessment has been made of such standards, with particular reference to reading and writing skills, compared to those of other children; [24519]
(2) what research his Department has carried out to assess the offending and reoffending rates of residents and ex-residents of residential children's homes; and what assessment he has made of such rates compared with those of other children. [24518]
§ Mr. BowisNo specific research has been carried out on these areas of residential care. A study which looks at a sample of 224 young people while they are in residential care and examines outcomes, including education and offending behaviour is, however, nearing completion.
§ Mr. HughesTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what arrangements are in place for(a) local authorities and (b) other bodies to monitor the educational achievements and offending rates of residents and ex-residents of residential children's homes; and what arrangements exist for action to be taken by such bodies if such rates are unsatisfactory. [24520]
§ Mr. BowisThese are matters for each local authority to determine. To assist them, however, in May 1995, the Department launched a set of materials called "Looking after Children: Good Parenting, Good Outcomes". The materials form a complete package for assessing, planning and reviewing the experiences and progress of children for whom statutory agencies have taken responsibility. Specific education sections include questions not only on progress and achievements of children but on the opportunities and support being provided within the care placement to enable them to succeed educationally. Seventy-two local authorities are implementing the materials.
325WMatters affecting local education authorities and other arrangements for monitoring the educational achievements of these children are primarily for my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Education and Employment.