One hundred years ago

The annual meeting of this Association – formed in 1895 to improve the status of asylum nurses and attendants – was held on June 1st, at the rooms of the Medical Society of London. Sir James Crichton-Browne took the chair, in the unavoidable absence of the President, Sir John Batty Tuke, M.P., and there was a crowded audience, consisting of medical and other officers of asylums and numerous attendants and nurses. The annual report was presented by the Honorary Secretary, Dr. G. E. Shuttleworth, and its adoption moved in an eloquent speech by the Chairman, who stated that the past year had been one of great activity in promoting the interests of asylum workers, especially in the matters of the registration of mental nurses and of obtaining Parliamentary support for assured pensions; that the finances were in a sound condition, though it was a matter of regret that the number of members had remained almost stationary – 3,227, including all ranks. Sir James made a strong appeal to the 20,000 persons estimated to be employed in the care of the insane throughout the United Kingdom to strengthen the Association's power for good by becoming members, stating that apart from other benefits, such as the “Homes of Rest” fund, the Asylum News, which often contained valuable and original articles by asylum nurses and attendants, was worth more than the small subscription for membership. Dr. Hyslop seconded the adoption of the report, referring to the arduous character of the asylum nurse's work, so little appreciated by the general public and sometimes misrepresented in so-called nursing journals. The motion was supported by Dr. G. J. Cooper, M.P., and by Mr. Will Crooks, M.P., both of whom testified to the courageous acts witnessed in asylums; though the brave deeds of nurses and attendants were not taken up by the press and extolled by the public like those of firemen, they were equally deserving of commendation; indeed, Mr. Crooks added he had seen evidence of Christian endurance and pluck in asylum service sufficient to earn the Victoria Cross. Two gold and two silver medals were then presented on behalf of the Association to two male and two female asylum nurses for long and meritorious service. The proceedings were brought to a close by the reappointment of Sir John Batty Tuke as President and the election of the Executive Committee and officers, with thanks for past services.