Male abortion counsellor

Press, 24 April 1980, Page 16

Male abortion counsellor

Sir, — Although I am still sorting out my views of the pros and cons of the abortion issue, I would like to say I am shocked to hear of the appointment of a male counsellor. It seems to me that the trauma of an abortion decision would be difficult enough without having to try to explain my feelings to a male. If this man truly understands women and their emotions maybe . he. will have the insight to stand down. — Yours, etc;, : MARYCLARE LAING. April 22, 1980.

Sir, — It is an unfortunate professional trait that when a colleague is publicly criticised, the group will close ranks. This is the way over the abortion counsellor situation, and I put it that the social workers’ objectivity in the matter has been clouded, and they can no longer look at the matter dispassionately. The fact remains that in such a critical situation as facing the dilemma of an unwanted pregnancy, it is imperative that the woman relates closely to her counsellor. As your social worker correspondents point out: “There are times when a counsellor of the same sex can be a great support.” What more delicate a situation can a woman face? — Yours, etc., SANDRA M. LEGGE. April 22, 1980.