Twenty-first annual report of the Suffolk Lunatic Asylum : December, 1858.

  • Suffolk Lunatic Asylum
Date:
[1859]
Catalogue details

Licence: Public Domain Mark

Credit: Twenty-first annual report of the Suffolk Lunatic Asylum : December, 1858. Source: Wellcome Collection.

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    Birch bedsteads have, in many instances, been substituted for the old tub bedsteads; bed-side carpets are now used, and wash-stands are being gradually introduced. We notice, besides, that a number of rooms have been papered and painted; six associated dormitories, for three patients in each, have been formed, by throwing two single rooms into one. An improvement has also been made in the covered way on the female side. We have now again to draw attention to those subjects which have not yet been attended to, and to express a hope that as little delay as possible will occur in carrying out the improvements which have been commenced. Especially, we think, that the stone floors should be replaced by wood, for we noticed to-day that nearly all the flags were very damp, and that the rooms where they exist were not free from offensive odour. The small windows also should be enlarged, and be so constructed as to admit more air. A number of proper seats, with backs, should be supplied where now only forms are provided; and the day rooms with stone floors be partly covered with matting. We find on inquiry that as many as ten or twelve patients are bathed in the same water; we think that the water should be changed more frequently, and that the supply of towels, brushes, combs, and looking-glasses should be increased considerably. The wards on the women’s side are now much crowded; and although as yet no patient has been refused admission, we think that it has become necessary to make further provision for the pauper lunatics of the county without delay. We hope that when taken the subject into consideration, the Visitors will see the importance of providing accommodation also for the insane poor belonging to the boroughs of Ipswich and Bury St. Edmund’s, either by uniting, or contracting, with the authorities of these boroughs. In conclusion, we have again to report that the condition of the patients and their contented appearance show the continued care and good treatment they receive from Dr. and Mrs. Kirkman. M. G. Campbell, ) _ . . . T James Wilkes, { Commissioners m Lunacy.
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