View report page

REPORT OF THE MEDICAL DIRECTOR ON
THE WORK OF THE WEST HAM CHILD GUIDANCE
CLINIC
By GEO. SOMERVILLE, M.D., D.P.M.
GENERAL. The work of the clinic has been well sustained
throughout the year. There is evidence that there is a growing
interest in the clinic activities and that more and more of the
schools are seeking our aid with their problem children. Generally,
the clinic's contacts are widening. It is interesting to note
that 10 cases have been referred from the Juvenile Court. In view
of the prevalence of juvenile delinquency, this association of
Child Guidance Clinic with the Juvenile Court is of great
importance.
On the whole we have found the parents (particularly the
mothers) to be most co-operative, especially when they have
attended the clinic on a number of occasions. It will be noted
again that over twice as many boys as girls were referred to the
clinic.
The new clinic premises are fulfilling their function satisfactorily.
We must record our thanks for the continuous supply
of flowers, which are appreciated by all who attend the clinic.
As has been expressed in a previous report, it is difficult to
assess with precision the immediate results of child guidance
treatment. Child guidance is essentially preventive work, which
is an insurance against mental ill-health in adult life. At the
same time, our immediate results can be measured in terms of
creating security within the family, in alleviating nervous
symptoms in the child and in promoting child happiness. In
this we believe we have achieved a fair measure of success.
STATISTICS—1st January, 1946, to 31st December, 1946
Cases carried over from previous years 29
Disposal:
Diagnosis only 4
Closed, improved 9
Closed before end of treatment 14
(a) Moved out of area 4
(b) No co-operation 10
Under treatment 2
New cases referred to clinic 82
Disposal:
Never attended 5
Diagnosis and Advice only 16
Under treatment 16
Diagnosed and awaiting treatment 5
Closed—improved 7
Closed before end of treatment 6
Transferred to Tavistock Clinic 1
Awaiting diagnosis 26
77