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14
New cases have been investigated, enquiries into home
conditions made for the Visiting Justices, and reports prepared
for the Board of Control.
A considerable time was spent in persuading parents to allow
their children to attend the Council's Training Centres; parents
do not always see the necessity for this, or the benefit that will
accrue to the child. Visits must also be paid to keep up the
attendance.
It is not always realised what a different position a mentally
defective child holds in the home when he or she has attended a
Training Centre. The child becomes, in a large number of cases,
more able to adjust himself to his surroundings, and to some
extent becomes a useful member of the family, whereas before
Training Centres were opened he became more isolated as he
became older, and a greater burden to his family.
Training and Handicrafts.
The work at the Training Centre at the Church Army Hall in
Barking Road has been carried out on improved lines. The
average attendance at both Centres has increased, and more saleable
articles are being made. This means an increase in the small
income derived from orders obtained and sales.
Simple hygiene lessons are being given in addition to routine
work:—Boys: Woodwork, leatherwork, rush and wool mats.
Girls: Plain needlework, rugmaking, raffia, beadwork and leatherwork.
The discipline is good, and is helping to form character.
At Christmas the children were given a most enjoyable party
and a Christmas tree, at which His Worship the Mayor presided,
accompanied by the Mayoress, the Chairman, other
members and officials of the Mental Deficiency Committee, and
parents. Some of the children gave a short but very creditable
entertainment, which was much enjoyed.
Case Work.
The following is an analysis of the case work during the year
ending 31st December, 1929.
Sent to institutions under Order 14
Removed to a "place of safety" pending the presentation
of a petition 5