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58
During 1965 this Authority assisted, along with other local authorities,
in the study of services for the Mentally Subnormal sponsored by the
National Association for Mental Health, National Society for Mentally
Handicapped Children and the Spastics Society, with University College
Hospital in an investigation into attitudes of acceptance or rejection on
the part of the mother towards a child suffering from mental subnormality.
At the end of the year arrangements were being made to co-operate
with Leavesden Hospital in a research project being carried out under the
direction of Professor Penrose.
The work of the mental health service progressed steadily during
1965, and the re-organisation consequent upon the coming into force of
the London Government Act, whilst presenting many difficulties, was
achieved relatively smoothly, and it is considered that the greater
accessibility of social workers in particular gives a more efficient service
to those patients and relatives who require assistance. It has also led to
much closer liaison with the health visitors, home nurses, home helps,
probation officers, welfare, children's and other social agencies, thus
avoiding much duplication of work.
Closer links have also been forged with the general practitioners and
the local voluntary societies in the mental health field.
During the latter part of the year much thought was given as to how
the service should develop, and provision was made in the 10 year plan
for the following establishments:
Adult Training Centre.
Day Centre for the younger mentally ill.
Assessment Unit.
Hostel for psychotic children.
Hostel for Subnormals.
Hostel for the Elderly Mentally 111.
These, together with the three existing establishments, will provide a
comprehensive service in Harrow.