Facilities for the mentally handicapped in the Western Cape. Some pressing needs

The proper management of mental handicap requires a carefully planned system of interlocking services. To implement such a system, accurate assessment of needs is essential. In 1984 the Western Cape Forum for the Mentally Handicapped undertook a survey incorporating information received from all existing centres (N = 37) within four economic regions of the Western Cape. The most glaring deficiency in services was in the black community with only 5.4% of the estimated needs being met, whereas in the coloured and white communities the figures were 36% and 86% respectively. However, serious deficiencies and imbalances for all three ethnic groups were identified. Certain basic principles which underlie a well-planned system of provision for the mentally handicapped are outlined. A survey to establish needs on a national level is suggested.