A HOUSE OF HELP. [TO THE EDITOR OF THE "
SPECTATOR...1 Sra,—I should be much obliged if you would allow me to bring to the notice of readers of the Spectator the work that is carried on at the House of Help, West Brampton, which may be of special interest at the present time, when the great need for supervision of those who fail to obtain regular work on leaving school, and of others who, owing to mental or physical defect, have difficulty in finding employment, is recognised by all social workers. In 1901 an Association was formed in West London to promote the protection and employment of those needing help owing to physical or mental defects. Since that time many names have been sent to us of those leaving the L.C.C. special schools for defective children, and of others, children and adults, who, being blind, deaf, crippled, or feeble-minded, need special care.
For nearly seven years our work was carried on with the use of rooms lent to us once a week. In 1908 we decided to rent 39 Lillie Road as a meeting-place for those needing help and helpers in the four districts of Pulliam, Kensington, Chelsea, and Hammer- smith. A class of children unable to attend school has since come daily for kindergarten lessons and games in the garden. The office has been used by many needing advice. Lads who have left special schools have been able to come when out of work to occupy themselves in house or garden, and in some cases the knowledge .thus gained of the lads has led to suitable work being found for them. Lessons in handicrafts are also given to invalids and cripples, and one room is used as a showroom for baskets, toys, &a, made by them for sale.
The complaint is often heard that lads who have left school spend their time in the streets. Our experience has been that many of the lads we try to help are glad to know of some place to which they can come for occupation when out of work. In most .eases the free library is the only place open to such lads during the daytime.
The House is also taking part in the care of the feeble-minded, over whom the State has at present no control after sixteen. Many of these and their relations already know the House as a place where they will find friends to advise them and help them -to do.their best. For this part of the work especially a permanent centre is most essential and valuable.
For the maintenance of our present centre ..£200 per annum is needed, only a small part of which is secured -by subscriptions. We should be most grateful therefore for help in money, or for offers of personal help, from any interested in the work described. Letters should be addressed to the honorary secretary, Miss Arnold, 39 Lillie Road, N.W.—I am, Sir, &c.,
P. S. G. PROPHET,
Chairman Employment Association for the Defective.
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