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Rehabilitation at Roffey Park

Looking after the mental health of workers post-World War II – filmed in astonishing full colour.

Government sponsored film 1946 29 mins

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Overview

This is a uniquely valuable and fascinating film. Intended at the time for specialist viewing, its forward-thinking subject is the treatment of Britain's industrial and office workers whose mental health has been strained to a breaking point, particularly vital after the all-out push required during World War II. Shot on Kodachrome reversal film in mostly natural light, the scenes have an extraordinary resonance and realism.

Much of a therapy feels good common sense: diet, exercise, activity and plenty of fresh air in the pleasant surroundings of Roffey Park near Horsham in Sussex. Which makes the introduction of some more controversial treatments, such as electroconvulsive therapy, all the more startling. Distributed non-theatrically by the Central Office of Information, this government film is a public record, preserved and presented by the BFI National Archive on behalf of The National Archives, home to more than 1,000 years of British history.

Director

Patrick Brunner

Genres

Government sponsored film

Country

United Kingdom

Location

Roffey Park (College)

Language

English

Subjects

Rehabilitation Depression (medical) Mental wellbeing Nervous breakdowns Industries, trades and crafts

Accessibility

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