HOSTEL FOR THE BLIND

Press, Volume C, Issue 29696, 14 December 1961, Page 3

HOSTEL FOR THE BLIND

First Year Of Operation, Now that “Femwood,” the South Island residential hostel for the blind, had been operating for 13 months it was possible to make some appraisal of its effectiveness, say a statement by the New Zealand Foundation for the Blind. “It would undoubtedly be true to say that so far as the residents are concerned, it has provided them v/ith a complete answer to their problem of a satisfactory home for their declining years.” the statement says. “The general atmosphere that has been created is most gratifying. “There is ample evidence that the grouping of the sexes in one establishment has very definite advantages and, if any, very few disadvantages. It has, in its own way, made the atmosphere of ‘Femwood’ more normal and in keeping with a home as opposed to an institution. “Considering the average age of residents—77—the health record appears to have been good. There is little doubt that several of those persons enjoying the care and comfort of ‘Fernwood’ would not have come through Igst winter had they remained under their previous conditions. One feature that has added towards the maintenance of reasonably good health, apart from actual nursing and general care, has been the ability of residents to move with comparative ease both inside and outside the building. Good use is made of the ‘walkabout’ and the grounds when the weather is suitable. “It is regretted that a substantial waiting list continues to build up and it now numbers 36. Admissions are made strictly in date order of application from a priority one and priority two classification.” Scholarships Awarded The following scholarship awards have been approved by the Canterbury Education Board:— Barclay Prizes. Colin Gilles (Waimate Centennial School) 1. Nicholas Davidson (Waimataitai) 2, Diane Rogan (Kingsdown School) 1, Clare Anstey (Kingsdown School) 2. Cowie Scholarship.—Barbara Ann Keemer (Christchurch West High School).