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Since the inception of the Borough, the above table showing
long term out-borough hostel placements remains virtually
unchanged where mental illness is concerned.
In the previous report comment was made on the wisdom of
discharging patients who have spent most of their lives in hospital,
into the community. Whilst the requests for such a move have not
been frequent, the tightening of criteria for admission to subnormality
hospitals resulted in a slow but upward trend in provision
of long term hostel accommodation for subnormal children
and adults. The financial aspect apart, efforts required in securing
a suitable accommodation are considerable. Furthermore, all such
accommodation is geographically remote and such remoteness is
for many reasons undesirable.
The establishment of our own hostels as envisaged in the
Authority's Capital Building Programme is given top priority by
the Section.
Voluntary Organisations
The essential ingredient in community care of the mentally
disordered is a "community which cares" and one of the indices of
a caring community is the success and vigour of local voluntary
bodies set up for this purpose.
Orpington Mental Health Association
One of the most active branches of National Association for
Mental Health, the Orpington Association has expanded in 1968
and achieved the ambitious target to purchase a house which was
to be the hub of their activities. The project came to fruition at the
end of the year and Anchor House since has proved "mental
health wise" not only a focal point for the area but also attracted
nationwide interest. The club facilities were greatly extended and
ambitious programmes pioneered.
The closest links with our own service are maintained at every
level.
Beckenham and Penge Mental Health Association
This Association though "younger" than its sister organisation