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any defects are referred to the North Thames Gas Board, who inspect and
advise on any improvements that are considered necessary. Whenever
possible, gas and electric meters are lowered to positions within easy
reach with a view to reducing the risks old people take in the home
climbing on chairs, steps, etc.
Fireguards are supplied by the Old People's Welfare Committee or on
application to the London County Council and safety bath mats are also
supplied.
Old Time Dancing and Arts and Crafts Classes
These classes are still very well attended and are of considerable
therapeutic value to their members. The classes are sponsored by the
London County Council who also provide the Instructors.
Number attending Dancing Class 60
Number attending Arts and Crafts Class 32
Clothing Issues have been made through the Women's Voluntary Services and
the Welfare Officer to 249 persons during the year.
Outings
Each of the four clubs held their annual outings to the sea and two
additional invitations were received from the Women's Institutes. This
enabled 60 pensioners to enjoy a day in the country.
Additional trips were also arranged by the British Red Cross Society
during the year and a number of pensioners were taken for outings to the
country.
Hospital Admissions and Institutional Care.
Excellent relations exist between this Department and the local
hospitals and patients are admitted with the minimum of delay.
Every effort is made by the Old People's Welfare Services to maintain
old people in their homes as long as possible with the result that only 16
people were admitted to Homes during the year and in only one case was it
necessary to take action under statutory powers.
Meals on Wheels
This service has been efficiently administered by the Women's
Voluntary Services and distributed by the voluntary organisations on five
days a week. It not only ensures that housebound old people are certain
of one meal a day, but provides an important link with all services available.