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38
Social Work
At the end of 1969 the number of active cases carried by the social
workers was over 1,400 and represented a new high level in the history of
the service. During 1970 the pressure of work increased still further and
despite a number of staff changes the total work load ran at over 1,615
action cases throughout the year. The number of requests for social work
assistance was also substantially greater than in any previous year and
social workers were concerned in helping about 2,500 people during the
year.
In addition to social work assistance to individual patients and relatives
group work was further developed whereby a number of persons can
be helped together. Social workers were concerned with five such groups
catering for about 50 persons and representing different categories of
need.
Students
The Training Officer continued to supervise the practical work of
student social workers in the service. In 1970 some 20 students attended
for practical training and contributed to the life and work of the service.
Visitors
The mental health service in the Borough continues to prove a most
popular source of interest to visitors from many countries, other local
authorities and hospitals.
THE UNIFIED INDUSTRIAL THERAPY SERVICE
1970 saw the further consolidation of this service, the focal point of
which is the Crosfield factory, a sheltered workshop which was transferred
to new premises in 1969. The benefits of the modern working conditions
which it provides are indicated by the increase in the contract
income from £48,785 in 1969 to over £71,000.
In many ways it has not been an easy year and the uncertainties of the
national economic situation have left their mark on the service. In particular,
the resettlement of disabled persons into open employment has presented
greater difficulties than at any time since the service started. Even so, the
rehabilitation statistics show an improvement over 1969 and this may be due
in some measure to the follow up section which has now been formed under
the Unit's Welfare Officer to improve liaison with employers, to provide a
ready channel of information and advice and generally make available an
immediate counselling service to which the employer of any disabled person
may turn if problems arise.
The main Health Department Units in the service are:—