DIVERSIONAL THERAPY

Otago Daily Times, Issue 26214, 26 July 1946, Page 4

DIVERSIONAL THERAPY

ESTABLISHMENT AT DUNEDIN HOSPITAL RED CROSS PROPOSAL The establishment of a diversional therapy department at the Dunedin Hospital, to be conducted by the Otago branch of the New Zealand Red Cross Society, was approved by the Hospital Board at its meeting last night. Mr Charles V. Smith, chairman of the society, advised that the society would also attend to the needs of the Wakari and Talboys Homes under the direction of a full-time therapist, supported, if necessary, by two or more assistants. The department, Mr said, would work with soldier, civilian and children patients, long-period tuberculosis, phychiatric, orthopedic or any other patients recommended by the doctors or ward sisters. The work would include all types of weaving loom work, leather work, rug making, toy making, felt work, modelling, poker work. French polishing, string knitting and needlework. The Red Cross Society was prepared fully -to finance the department, but would ask the board to provide a room and a mid-day meal for the staff. The proposal was approved by the board and was referred to the Hospital Committee to arrange the details.