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'Children of all ages have been seen, and time has been
available to ascertain the reasons behind their difficulties. Parents
and children have been interviewed separately and together, as
required. Recall appointments have been made according to
individual need.
'Often there has been a failure in communication between
parent and child, or else unfortunate attitudes have been adopted.
Either or both of these can often be modified by an outsider.
'Some children with special problems and behaviour difficulties
are substantially helped and discharged, others can be
partially helped, yet others, for a variety of reasons are sent
into the Child Guidance Clinic.
'I submit that the special cases clinic, if adequately used,
can be an ideal way to decrease the load on the Child Guidance
Service.'
CHILD GUIDANCE SERVICE
I am indebted to the Chief Education Officer for the following
report on the work of the Child Guidance Clinics during the year:—
1. General
During 1966 the staffing position in the Child Guidance Service
fluctuated, but by September, when the second educational psychologist
was appointed, both the Wimbledon and Mitcham Clinics were
fully staffed, with the exception of the third post of psychiatric
social worker. This has gready facilitated the work of the service in
the Borough.
2. Establishment
The combined establishment of professional staff for the two
Child Guidance Clinics as at 31st December, 1966, was as follows:—
2 Psychiatrists—six half-day sessions per week each.
2 educational psychologists—full-time.
3 psychiatric social workers—full-time (one post vacant).
1 psychotherapist—full-time (0.2 vacant).
The appointment of an additional psychotherapist is under consideration.
3. Remedial Classes
Since the last report a third remedial class has been opened at
Lonesome Junior School, Mitcham, for children who for one reason
or another have fallen behind with their school work.
4. Visits to Schools
(a) The further development of Cambridge House as a school
for primary maladjusted children has been most advantageous
and co-operation has developed between the Head Teacher
and the Child Guidance Service. This is proving most beneficial
to all concerned.
(b) The Assistant Education Officer (Special Services), the educational
psychologists and psychiatric social workers have
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