Case Notes (1956 - 1973)

Access Conditions

Former residents and clients can access information about themselves after providing proof of identity. Access to information may be given to a third party providing they have written permission from the person to whom the information relates, can prove a connection with that person, or show evidence that the person is deceased. All other applications for access will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Access to information about adoptions is subject to the provisions of the NSW Adoption Act 2000.

Records

The amount of additional information attached to the Cate Notes folder varies for each woman. In most cases, there is information about the woman's background; details of the birth of the baby; information about the baby's adoption (if relevant), including name and address of adopting parents; biographical information about the birth parents including height, hair and eye colouring, complexion, age, religion, occupation, education, interests; and father's name. In the case of adoptions, a medical report on the child may be attached.

Often there is also correspondence attached from the woman seeking help from the Salvation Army (e.g. accommodation for the duration of her pregnancy, assistance in organising an adoption, etc.), along with a reply from the Social Department. There is often a letter of reference from the Social Department to the home/hostel where the woman was going to stay prior to her admission to hospital.