‘Disturbing’ figures

Press, Volume CXI, Issue 32634, 16 June 1971, Page 15

‘Disturbing’ figures

Between 1959 and 1969 New Zealand’s population rose by 20 per cent, but in about the same period, the number of people placed on probation rose 79 per cent, suicides 26 per cent, mental hospital admissions 90 per cent (1960-1970), children committed to care of the Child Welfare Division 67 per cent (1960-1968), and illegitimate births 55 per cent (1962-1968).

Giving these figures, the New Zealand association of social workers says that they present a disturbing picture which shows that New Zealand is faced with a growing welfare burden, to which there is apparently no limit. “Each one of these figures may have a variety of interpretations or even explanations but, when taken as a whole, they present a most disturbing picture and should give cause for considerable concern, not only to social workers, but to the authorities and all concerned with caring for our society," says the president of the association (Major N. C. Manson). “Although private wealth and security are increasing, the social well-being of individuals, and of the community, appears to be declining. The quality of care now available is less than adequate and more and more people need help with personal and social problems.”