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24
MENTAL DEFICIENCY ACTS, 1913-1938.
Ascertainment.
The number of cases ascertained for the first time during the
year 1944 was 16, and they were dealt with as under:—
4 placed in institutions (under Order) (one admission pending).
7 placed under statutory supervision.
2 placed under friendly care.
1 declared uncertifiable.
1 referred to Essex County Council.
Provision of Institutional Accommodation.
Whilst the difficulty experienced in obtaining institutional
accommodation generally has been relieved by the erection of South
Ockendon Colony, this continues in respect of the placing of low
grade cases.
Guardianship.
There are 35 cases under guardianship, of whom seven have
evacuated to other areas. During the year six males were transferred
under Varying Orders to institutional care.
Supervision.
There are 125 mental defectives under statutory supervision in
their own homes plus 15 who are still evacuated to other areas. A
number have removed since the war began and are untraceable. A
fair percentage of the cases are absorbed into unskilled employment.
All the cases are visited at varying intervals and reports filed, helpful
advice being given with regard to their management, training, etc.
Parents rarely show any resentment to these visits.
Occupation Centre.
The whole day sessions at the Occupation Centre, with the provision
of a hot midday meal, are being satisfactorily continued.
There has been an average daily attendance of 22 of varying ages
and of both sexes. Handwork of all types forms the main part of
the curriculum, and all articles made are definite orders for sale.