Batten, Mollie (1905–1985)

views updated

Batten, Mollie (1905–1985)

English social-work pioneer. Name variations: Edith Mary Batten. Born 1905 in London, England; died 1985 in England; graduated from Southport Girls' High School; attended Liverpool University and London School of Economics; studied theology at St. Anne's, Oxford, 1947–49.

Became warden of Birmingham University Settlement (1933) and developed training for both youth and social workers; worked for Ministry of Labor during WWII but declined permanent civil service appointment, choosing instead to read theology at St. Anne's; served as principal of William Temple College, bringing together people from industry, civil service, social work and education (1950–66); supported Labour Party as well as ordination of women into priesthood. Awarded Order of the British Empire (OBE, 1948).

More From encyclopedia.com