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One of the most important factors for the handicapped child is establishing social
competence, and noticeable progress has been observed through expanding outside
activities. An excellent film on this theme has been made by the staff of the Hendon
Junior Training School.
I am pleased to acknowledge that the success and progress of these schools is
attributable to the tireless efforts of the staff to avail themselves of every opportunity
to seek new approaches to the word and, in handing them to the Education Department
in 1971, am confident that they will not cease to educate these children in an
exemplary manner.
Special Care Units
The provision of more special care unit accommodation remains one of the most
urgent priorities, particularly for the more severely physically handicapped child
and young adult. Without these units and the devotion of the staff who run them, it
would be impossible for some families to go on caring for the handicapped in their
midst. Discussions are taking place with the North West Metropolitan Regional
Hospital Board to provide Day Hospitals for these patients.
Short Term Care
It is recognised that it is an essential part of community care for practical relief
to be given to families from the continual care of the handicapped member. It is
frequently the short term care, rather than the supporting help, which enables the
family to go on. Voluntary organisations are the main source of short term care
vacancies, and many patients benefited from this service during the year. It is
particularly fortunate that the Principal Medical Officer is Hon. Consultant to Buckets
and Spades organisation with a Home at St.Leonards, Sussex, which provides
excellent holiday care for the majority of children.
Residential Care
The effective stop on admissions to Psychiatric Hospitals for the mentally
retarded has increased the difficulties which have been growing steadily. The very
heavy burden placed on the parents of severely disturbed or physically handicapped
retarded children and adults is difficult to relieve at the present time.
For children, the 10 place hostel at 55 Christchurch Avenue, North Finchley, has
proved a great success. This has been much admired and visited by Architects,
Doctors, Educationalists and Administrators from all over the world, and is regarded
as a model for small family homes.
Two 25 place hostels for adults are at the advanced planning stage.
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