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* The kitchen at Gravel Hill has been the subject of special inspection because it
falls short of standard modern requirements.
(b) Possible Expansion:
Of an estimated 2000 housebound old persons only 1,000 to 1,500 might be willing
to accept meals and it was agreed that a target might be set of 1,000 persons
requiring 4000 meals per week. The immediate target should ensure 4 meals per
week to those already receiving only 2 meals. In view of the significant social
advantages of helping old people to remain in their own homes it was thought that
the Committee would wish to expand the service as quickly as possible to its
optimum level. In this context a three-year programme of expansion is suggested, i.e.:
Meals per week Persons
Existing service 630 300
1970-71 1.700 425
1971-72 2,800 700
1972-73 4,000 1,000
Special Considerations of The Working Party:
(i) In the first year no economic advantages would be expected from the use of
frozen foods but later on this method would merit closer study. In the meantime
their introduction by the WRVS at the Gravel Hill Kitchen would be
followed with interest.
(ii) The services and experience of the WRVS should be incorporated in the
scheme.
(iii) The existing resources of the Council should be utilised as fully as possible.
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