Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Simon Kirby and Tim Loughton

Monday 11th October 2010 Commons Chamber

[Simon Kirby (Brighton, Kemptown) (Con)]

15. What progress has been made on his Department’s plans to help families with multiple problems.

[The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Education (Tim Loughton)]

The Government are committed to a new approach to supporting families with multiple problems. My officials are working with the Association of Directors of Children’s Services and voluntary organisations to encourage local innovation to tackle barriers. Since April, family interventions have supported 4,725 families with multiple problems, already exceeding the 3,518 supported in the whole of last year. Ninety-three per cent. of families completed or are still receiving support, and no fewer than 79% left with successful outcomes.

[Simon Kirby]

I am sure the Minister remembers visiting Whitehawk primary school in my constituency. With reference to families with multiple problems, does he agree that dealing with these complex issues early can often save the state money in the long run?