Opened in 1903 St Ebba’s Hospital initially served as the Ewell Epileptic Colony. It was a pioneering institution. The London County Council built it to house 326 epileptic patients. Eight separate villas each held 38 patients. A central block housed administrative offices a recreation hall and other essential services. Imagine life within those walls. Patients received treatments. These included bromide of strontium and a regulated diet. Sadly in its first year 17 of 315 patients died.
St Ebba’s was more than just a hospital. During World War I it transformed into the Ewell War Hospital. It treated neurasthenic ex-servicemen. The Ministry of Pensions administered it from 1918 to 1927. After the war the hospital reverted to its original purpose. It became a mental hospital. The Mental Treatment Act of 1930 allowed voluntary admissions. St Ebba’s quickly adapted to this change. It became known for its focus on patients with acute illnesses. They could voluntarily stay for up to two years.
The hospital’s innovative approach to care attracted medical students. They came from London teaching hospitals. They learned from St Ebba’s unique system. Consultant staff from the hospital held outpatient clinics in London. The hospital even fostered a relationship with Wandsworth Prison. This ensured prisoners with mental health problems received necessary care.
Later it expanded. In 1938 it was renamed St Ebba’s Hospital. By the late 1940s most patients were voluntary admissions. In 1948 it joined the National Health Service. The South West Metropolitan Regional Board governed it. Unlike other Epsom Cluster hospitals St Ebba’s continued to accept patients from most of London. This underscored its unique role. In 1949 an adolescent unit opened. An occupational therapy department also began. Patients participated in various activities. These included work in workshops discussions and even contributing to the hospital’s magazine.
In 1962 St Ebba’s shifted its focus. It became a hospital for mentally subnormal patients. Most psychiatric patients transferred elsewhere. The wards were renovated. The hospital later opened an Industrial Training Unit. It provided vocational training for patients. A cement products factory followed. It employed patients to make paving slabs. The hospital continued to grow. By 1979 it housed 629 beds. This made it the largest mental handicap hospital in the area.
Despite its growth St Ebba’s eventually declined. Patient numbers fell. A Parents and Relatives Group formed. They advocated for the hospital site’s preservation. By 1995 it had 484 beds. Community homes began receiving patients. Today redevelopment continues. St Ebba’s Hospital’s legacy continues to impact the community. Its rich history of innovation and care stands as a testament to its enduring importance.