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97
each table loom, one on the floor loom; and another on the
rug frame. Thus the six patients attending have carried on
continual work.
Scarves, dinner mats and cushion covers have been woven
and sold, and at present towels are being made, and the first
small rug is taking shape on the frame. The finished articles
have all been of saleable quality, and some 30 scarves, three
sets of dinner mats and twelve cushion covers have been sold.
Eight towels, each pair having different colours and texture,
are almost complete. Woollen material of Fair Isle pattern is
being made up into hoods, with matching mittens for children.
Most of the articles have been sold by the patients themselves,
and repeat orders have shown that there is a ready
market close at hand.
It is hoped at a later date to start a dyeing class, and so
lower the cost of yams and give a wider range of colours in
cotton and wool for use on the looms.
Since moving to the shop premises at 280, High Road,
Leyton, in April, the class has increased by four new students:
and the need for more equipment, giving wider scope, has
arisen. With the extra space now at the disposal of the
patients, and the keen interest they are showing, the need
is being felt for larger equipment more suitable for men and
capable of weaving single width tweed and furnishing material
...."
From my personal observation of the working of the Occupational
Therapy Centre since its inception, I am more firmly convinced
than ever that these patients derive great physical and
mental benefit from the fact that they are engaged in useful work.
Patients suffering from tuberculosis tend to become increasingly
introspective, morbid and depressed: and occupational therapy is of
great value in changing their mental outlook.
They derive much satisfaction from the knowledge that they
are producing articles which are of use to the community, and
occupational therapy is a very valuable form of medical treatment.
At the meeting of Leyton Health Area Sub-Committee on 29th
October, 1951, the Sub-Committee agreed to the purchase of one
H.L.C. 32-in. 4-shaft floor loom at a cost of approximately £80,
and that an additional class be held each week.