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The total number of mentally ill persons residing in the community and under
care at the 31st December, 1968 was 690 (315) i.e., 281 (148) males, 409 (167) females.
The figures in brackets show comparable figures for 1967.
Residential Accommodation for the Mentally 111.
At the end of 1968, there were 34 patients for whom the Borough had accepted
financial responsibility in mental after-care homes and hostels run by voluntary societies
and other local authorities. The Mental After-Care Association is particularly helpful
in this respect.
Day Centre for the Mentally 111.
The Day Centre for mentally ill adults of all ages opened on the 17th January,
1968, and is accommodated at the Council's Hostel at 11 Rosslyn Road, Twickenham.
The Centre was run under the day to day supervision and guidance of the Senior
Mental Welfare Officer and his colleagues.
The Centre operated initially for one afternoon session of two hours per week,
but from 1st October, 1968, the number of sessions was increased to two per week.
The number of patients attending now average 20-25, having gradually risen from 12
initially. It is anticipated that this number will further increase owing to the popularity
and the urgent and growing need for the facilities offered at this day centre. Persons
attending are adult patients of all ages who come from differing spheres and have been
affected by mental illness, are emotionally isolated and housebound and refuse to join
in community activities. Many of these and particularly those who have no relatives
will have lost interest in themselves and their surroundings.
The centre provides recreational and occupational facilities, occupational therapy,
discussions, films of topical interest, music and movement and other group activities.
During 1968, a coach tour of Kent and a Christmas Tea Party including a gift for each
patient, was arranged, the cost being borne by the Twickenham Mental Health
Association.
Community Care of the Subnormal and Severely Subnormal.
Referrals to the Mental Health Service.
Supervision in the Home.
With support from social workers and health visitors, many subnormal and
severely subnormal patients of all ages are able to live satisfactorily in the community.
It is essential that they and their parents are able to obtain assistance with their
problems and this is readily available through visiting officers.
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