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91
Possum Installation
In the early part of the year it was possible to supply
and install a Possum Unit (patient operated selector mechanism)
for the use of a severely disabled young man who has suffered from
neurofibromatosis since he was seven years of age.
The apparatus enables paralysed and other disabled persons
to operate a range of electrical equipment by mouth or other small
physical movements.
The Possum Unit is supplied free by the Ministry of Health,
but the cost of installation and additional apparatus falls to be
met by the Council under its scheme for the welfare of the physically
handicapped as provided for by the provisions of the National
Assistance Act, 1948.
This young man can now, by means of mouth suction, operate
a loudspeaking telephone, intercom to the front door with a control
to open that door switch on an electric fire, the wireless and the
television.
Kingston upon Thames Association for the Handicapped
In September 1967 an inaugural meeting was held at the
Guildhall under the Chairmanship of The Worshipful the Mayor to
consider the formation of a voluntary association for the handicapped
in the borough. It was agreed that such an association should be
formed and a steering committee set up.
It is pleasing to be actively concerned with this association
and to have had the privilege of acting as its secretary until an
appointment was made.
Social and Recreational Clubs for the Handicapped
The remainder of the services which are provided for
physically handicapped persons can be described as recreational.
These involve grants to clubs and provision of holidays. There are
in the borough a number of organisations which run social clubs, as
listed overleaf for handicapped persons, and which receive grants
from this authority. Their efforts in this field are much appreciated.