In 1975 John Pilger investigated the plight of children in England and Wales who had learning difficulties. They lived as long-stay hospital patients, their basic needs catered for but beyond that, many of them simply vegetated. He seeks out the opinions of doctors and nurses across the field, interviewing specialists who provide speech and physiotherapy, play with and engage, or believe 'they can be restored' in some way.

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International journalist John Pilger reports on some unjust and harrowing situations around the world.

This film was first broadcast: 09 Jan 1975

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