Kew Cottages

Former institution for people with intellectual disabilities in Victoria, Australia

Kew Cottages

Kew Cottages in 1900

Kew Cottages, also known as Kew Idiot Asylum, was an institution located in Kew, Victoria, Australia, established in 1887. It was the first purpose-built facility in Victoria for the care of people with intellectual disabilities. The institution played a significant role in the history of disability care in Australia, evolving over time in response to changing attitudes and policies regarding the treatment and care of individuals with intellectual disabilities.

History

The establishment of Kew Cottages was part of a broader movement in the late 19th century to provide specialized care for people with intellectual disabilities. Prior to the opening of Kew Cottages, individuals with such disabilities were often housed in lunatic asylums or other inappropriate facilities. The creation of Kew Cottages marked a shift towards more humane and specialized care.

The original buildings were designed to accommodate 50 residents, but the demand for services quickly outstripped capacity. Over the years, the facility expanded significantly, with new buildings and services added to meet the needs of a growing population.

Development and Changes

Throughout the 20th century, Kew Cottages underwent numerous changes. In the early years, the focus was primarily on custodial care, but by the mid-20th century, there was a shift towards education and rehabilitation. This change was influenced by broader social and political movements advocating for the rights and integration of people with disabilities.

In the 1960s and 1970s, Kew Cottages began to implement programs aimed at increasing the independence of residents. These included vocational training and community integration initiatives. However, the institution also faced criticism for overcrowding and inadequate facilities.

Closure and Legacy

In the late 20th century, there was a growing movement towards deinstitutionalization, which advocated for the closure of large institutions like Kew Cottages in favor of community-based care. This movement was driven by a belief in the rights of individuals with disabilities to live in the community and have access to the same opportunities as others.

Kew Cottages was gradually closed, with the last residents moving out in 2008. The site has since been redeveloped, but the legacy of Kew Cottages remains significant in the history of disability care in Australia. It serves as a reminder of the progress made in the treatment and care of individuals with intellectual disabilities, as well as the ongoing challenges in ensuring their rights and dignity.

Related pages

• Disability rights movement
• Deinstitutionalization
• Intellectual disability
• Kew, Victoria