View report page

(16)

Under the provisions of the National Assistance Act 1948
(Amendment) Act, 1962 the Council, as from 1st April, 1963, also
assumed responsibility for the provision of recreation for old people.
Arrangements were made for 179 elderly people to spend holidays
at the seaside and a standard grant was made in each case, the balance
of the cost being met by the individual. The same rate of grant was
paid to 219 people proceeding on holiday under private arrangements.
The Bermondsey and Rotherhithe Council for the Welfare of
Old People have for some years arranged afternoon outings for the
elderly homebound as these old people rarely have the opportunity
of seeing something of the countryside. The Council decided to
continue with this greatly appreciated activity and during the year
four afternoon outings were arranged consisting of a ride into the
countryside with a stop for tea on the way. Those who by reason
of infirmity were unable to get to a central point to board the coach
were collected from their homes and returned at the end of the day.
Some 300 old people participated in these outings, the success of
which was in no small measure due to the kindness, courtesy and
great consideration shown by the coach drivers.
Arrangements were made for fireguards to be fitted in the homes
of 37 elderly people. I appreciate the co-operation shown by
owners of property in the Borough in helping to reduce a very real
risk of accidents to those who are frail and infirm.
During the year 82 articles of home nursing equipment held by
the Council on behalf of the Red Cross were issued on loan.
MUNICIPAL CLUB
The Club in its sixth year has considerably increased its membership
which now totals 628.