Abstract
M.A.
It can be concluded from the findings of this study that there are no relevant facilities for mentally retarded children at Ga-Molepo, i.e. no professional services rendered,no voluntary services, no special schools or centres, no receipt of social security and no commitment from members of the community towards retarded children in the area. The list is endless. It can also be concluded that the researcher managed to achieve the aim and objectives of the study as she gained information which will be used by professionals who render services at Ga-Molepo. The information gleaned will enable these professionals, such as social workers, to make informed decisions on the development and utilisation of resources in the community to ensure that the needs of mentally retarded children in the area are met. The objectives of the study were also met, that is: The researcher managed to administer an interview schedule to parents of mentally retarded children at Ga-Molepo in order to identify the needs of the said children as highlighted in Chapter Two of the study. a, She also administered another interview schedule to key persons in the community of Ga-Molepo in order to identify existing resources, if any, for mentally retarded children in the area. The researcher managed to analyse data collected on the needs of mentally retarded children and the resources available in the area with the aim of formulating recommendations in that regard. Based on the findings and conclugions of this study, the researcher deems it necessary that certain recommendations pertaining to this investigation be made. These recommendations are: As the study indicates that the majority of the mentally retarded children at Ga-Molepo are moderately mentally retarded, would not progress beyond sub-standard B level, and could benefit from training in occupational and social skills, it becomes clear that a multi-purpose centre could be of benefit to these children. At such a centre, children could learn various survival skills, as various professionals or members of a multidisciplinary team, such as social workers, occupational therapists, clinical psychologists, speech therapists, etc. would visit regularly. The centre could also have a workshop wing where these children could practise their vocational skills and also leam how to earn a living at a later stage, when they become adults. It is recommended that an investigation be undertaken to establish the viability of such a centre and the number of mentally retarded children in the area who could benefit from the proposed centre. As it was noted that the community was predominantly indifferent to the plight of mentally retarded children at Ga-Molepo, which is confirmed by the lack of Voluntary services for these children, the researcher recommends that the professionals, such as social workers, clinical psychologists, etc. give educational talks to the entire community on the subject of mental retardation. Such an exercise would enlighten community members on what mental reatardation really is and could motivate them to participate actively in issues pertaining to mentally retarded people. 5.4.3 Owing to the fact that no professional services are being rendered to mentally retarded children at Ga-Molepo, it is recommended that the government ensure that professional services, especially those required by mentally retarded children, be made available in the area. The ideal is for services to be taken to the people. In other words, people should not have to travel long distances to procure professional Children with mental disabilities -- Services for -- South Africa -- Ga-Molepo