Entertainments

Entertainments such as dances, concerts and

sports days were arranged for patients, and items

such as newspapers, magazines and books were

supplied. Constructive hobbies and talents, such

as bird-keeping and playing music or games,

were also encouraged.

Visiting

Family and friends of patients were permitted

to visit, although this was not commonplace.

Families of patients often had to travel long

distances to reach Prestwich, and travel was too

expensive to afford on a regular basis. There was

also the significant stigma and fear in which

mental illness was held by early Victorian society,

which often had strong associations of sin and

immorality, through alcoholism, sexual activity

and poor self-discipline. This attitude was a

significant barrier to families maintaining contact

with their loved ones whilst in asylums.