12. In 1950 two local social workers were awarded Colonial Development and Welfare Scholarships, to take specialized courses in the United Kingdom, whilst in 1951 another social worker was awarded a British Council studentship.

13. Apart from the courses already mentioned, all other training in social work was carried out by government depart- ments and voluntary bodies on their own. The degree of training varied a great deal, and there seemed to be little tendency, outside government offices, for those in training to visit and study the work of other organizations.

CHAPTER IV

INFANT WELFARE

14. Throughout the period under review the Society for the Protection of Children was the best known voluntary organization interesting itself in the welfare of infants. This society devoted nearly all its funds, staff, and time to maternity and infant welfare work. The Society received a considerable cash subvention through the Social Welfare Officer, and for many months was given free of charge the use of a part of the Social Welfare Office's accommodation in Happy Valley; meals on special occasions, and other facilities were also pro- vided from time to time by the Social Welfare Office.

In 1951 the Hong Kong Society for the Protection of Children built a two-storey headquarters, clinic, and child welfare centre on a valuable site in Kowloon, which was given to the Society by Government.

15. Serious social problems raised by mothers who aban- doned their babies were met by Foundling Homes, the Police, and the Social Welfare Office co-operating together. Generally these babies were dumped near an orphanage or a Police Station, in the hope that they would either be brought up or buried at public expense. Practically never were they later reclaimed. Many were dumped by working mothers who were unable to care for a baby as well as earn enough to keep

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