Related to Material relating to the rehabilitation of spinal and spinal cord injuries
Description:

''Most paraplegics spend a long period in hospital, and it is most essential that their physical readjustment should go hand in hand with their rehabilitation by work. This principle has been practised at this Centre from the start, and emphasis was laid on early vocational training, which no doubt has proved the best form of occupational therapy for paraplegics. (19)

 

'The aim of this work was not merely occupational therapy as a diversional measure... No, the aim, broadly speaking, was to use it as the first step in the patient's industrial rehabilitation, by regaining the lost power of concentration, reviving initiative and developing the mobility and dexterity of the fingers, upon which the future vocation of most paraplegics will depend in a large measure. And it should not be forgotten that several paraplegics, who showed particular interest and ability in toy or rug-making, needlework or leather work have actually continued this work later on and have started a business for themselves at home...

Soon after the Centre was started proper pre-vocational training was introducted, at first by correspondence courses in commercial arts, economics, banking and law.' (19)

 

'it was not to be expected that everyone would make full use of the various facilities offered. In numerous cases, it took a considerable time to rouse the patient out of that state of apathy resulting from a septic condition and enforced, prolonged inactivity. Moreover, other factors, such as education, temprement and individual inclination had to be taken into consideration, and obviously spinal cord injury does not necessarily change a man who has been work-shy previously into a first-rate worker.' (20)

 

- includes an associated plate depicting photographs of clock assembly and precision engineering being undertaken at Stoke Mandeville.