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Institutional care became necessary for 11 persons, most of whom
settled down quite readily to a communal life. However, it must be
stressed that a change of environment frequently entails considerable
tact and effort.
The Women's Voluntary Services and other kind donors have continued
to dispense much needed clothing to recommended cases, and 246 persons
were so helped in this manner during the year as compared with 308
in 1956. The National Assistance Board also gives every sympathy to
persons in distress, and makes grants which ensure the securing of
essential items.
Many people are found to be in enfeebled conditions, and therefore
unable to properly look after themselves. In such cases, personal
cleansing is arranged, At the same time rooms are cleansed and
superflous items disposed of.
A local boot-repairer is now carrying out boot and shoe repairs
to the extent of twenty-five pairs monthly. The charge for this work
is subject to a reduction of twopence in the shilling from normal costs,
and this public-spirited action is taken full advantage of.
At the beginning of November, 1955, a laundry service for incontinent
persons was inaugurated by the Council with the valued co-operation of
Fulham Borough Council, Soiled linen is collected twice weekly from the
homes of these unfortunate persons and delivered to Fulham's disinfecting
station where it is laundered and later collected for return to those
using the scheme. During the year 23 persons had so benefited, and some
3,308 pounds of bedding, etc,, had been laundered.
The Council's Social Worker made 1,990 visits to cases on the
Council's registers. In a considerable number of cases, visits were
made to people whilst they were in hospital. It must be pointed out that
very many visits are of a protracted nature, and lead to the making of a
variety of enquiries, the completing of which cannot be duly recognised in
this report.