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58
The adoption of the training centre by the motor vessel
AKAROA of the Shaw Savill and Albion Co. Ltd., continues to flourish.
Donations collected by passengers amounted to two sums of £40 each;
this money was used to purchase two budgerigars, a cage, a Moulton
bicycle and a high chair for use in the special care unit. Two
visits were made to AKAROA whilst she was berthed at King George V
dock.
During the month of December the children performed their
annual show, entitled "The Brightest Star" and entertainment in the
form of a Christmas party for juniors and a social evening for adults
was arranged. These functions were all successful and well attended
by parents and friends.
In June a small party of children accompanied by the staff
were taken to Pirates Spring for a week"s holiday. The cost of
this was borne by the parents but the local authority were responsible
for the cost of transport„
The Ham Football Club deserve thanks for their generous
donation which enabled the adults and juniors to attend the Ice Show
at Wembley.
Adult Training Centre
The Adult Training Centre and Workshops continue to provide a
programme of training to enable those who attend to develop to their
full potential, and as a result of this training to lead an independent
life in the community, so far as their limited intellectual capacity
will allow. It is important that the training should allow the
trainees to develop skills which will be useful for them in open
employment as well as providing stimulating activities for those who
are only able to work under the sheltered environment of a workshop
It is also necessary to provide instruction for leisure pursuits and
this can be accomplished if it is linked with an active programme of
social training.
Owing to the lack of accommodation and staffing difficulties,
it has not been possible to expand and introduce new activities into
the workshops but a fairly regular supply of contract work has been
provided by four local firms in the area. Thanks are due to these
firms for the interest shown in providing work for the men and women
who attend this centre. All the money which is earned is paid out in
the form of wages to trainees. Payment for work acts as an incentive
for the trainees to make progress and achieve further independence.