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131
OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY.
In March, 1950, it was reported to the Leyton, Wanstead and
Woodford Care Association that certain local patients suffering
from tuberculosis would be likely to benefit from a course of
occupational therapy, and the Association decided that the
necessary facilities be provided. A weaving class was commenced,
and Mrs. S. A. Wiltshire was appointed as instructor. Since that
time Leyton Health Area Sub-committee has accepted financial
responsibility for the instructor's fees and the cost of equipment.
Report by the Instructor (Mrs. S. A. Wiltshire).
"At the beginning of 1952, eleven patients were attending
the class. The weaving of scarves, dinner mats and cushion
covers is continuing, and jewellery and plastic work have been
added to the activities. In March a 33-inch floor loom was
added to the equipment, and the first length of tweed was in
process of being worked.
At the request of the County Medical Officer the instructor
and some of the patients gave demonstrations at an Occupational
Therapy stand at the Essex County Show held in June
for two days. Seven patients there showed work on the big
loom, the small table loom, jewellery and plastics. The
Exhibit evoked considerable interest from members of the public
attending the health exhibits.
Different lines in jewellery and plastics were tried out
during the year, and proved a great success.
Tweed suit lengths, a bedspread, curtains, and fine
woollen head scarves were woven on the large floor loom.
In the autumn it was possible to add leather work to the
activities of the class, and the results were sufficiently encouraging
to justify the addition of this activity to the other
crafts. A mechanical saw was kindly donated to the Centre,
and a number of articles of woodwork (such as trays, table mats,
etc.) were completed. It is hoped to extend this activity in the
near future.
A Christmas Exhibition and Sale was arranged for two
days in December, and owing to the interest shown by the
general public this was extended for a further three days.