VARIATIONS IN TAKE UP OF THE FAMILY FUND

This paper investigates geographical variations in successful and unsu ccessful applications to the Family Fund Trust which provides grants t o families with severely disabled children. A new measure of take-up i s developed which takes account of demographic differences between loc al social services authorities and relates local take-up levels to nat ional rates. The take-up of grants varies more than twofold across loc al authorities but is generally higher in deprived areas, suggesting t hat the help available from the fund is targeting those most in need. Nonetheless use of the fund is less than expected in metropolitan area s characterized by rented accommodation, high rise dwellings and minor ity ethnic groups. Ethnic monitoring and other measures to promote equ al opportunities have recently been introduced. If take-up were unifor mly high across England and Wales the current caseload and budget woul d increase by more than half, Local authorities where renewed efforts might be most effectively targeted to encourage families to apply for a grant can be identified but any publicity would need to ensure that inappropriate applications are kept to a minimum.