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Settlement of Estates.
In cases of persons dying intestate, the local authority deal with
the settlement of estates in those instances where they are actively
engaged in the provision of services stemming from the National
Assistance Act, 1948; such work is carried out in co-operation with the
Treasury Solicitor.
On 1st January, 1966, there were seventy-five estates outstanding.
During the year, 119 estates were referred for settlement where there
was no next-of-kin. 118 estates were wound up involving some £2,030,
and at 31st December, 1966, a total of seventy-six estates was being
dealt with.
Receiverships.
The Chief Welfare Officer is the designated person to act as
Receiver, by Order of the Court of Protection on behalf of persons who
are mentally incapable of managing their own affairs.
The duties of the Receiver are defined by the terms of the Court's
Order and vary in each case. They are usually connected with the
day-to-day administration of the patient's effects, procuring lodgment
into Court of capital monies, paying outstanding debts and arranging
for the safe custody of securities, etc. The Receiver has to account,
generally annually, to the Court of Protection for his action on behalf
of the patient. He is also expected to take a personal interest in the
welfare of the patients, to advise and assist them to be restored to
the management of their own affairs, and to submit to the Chief Clerk
of the Court any proposals within the patients' means which are likely
to ameliorate their condition or add to their comfort.
At 1st January, 1966, there were nine persons for whom the Chief
Welfare Officer was appointed Receiver. During the year, one person
died, leaving a total of eight Receivership cases with a gross
estimated value of £11,245.16s.l1d., and for whom a total sum of
£2,800 was disbursed.
Removal to Suitable Premises of Persons in need of care and attention.
Under Section 47 of the National Assistance Act, 1948, and the
National Assistance (Amendment) Act, 1951, powers are given to the
local authority for the compulsory removal of persons suffering from
grave chronic disease, or who are aged, infirm or physically
handicapped and who are living in insanitary conditions and unable to
devote to themselves, and not receiving from other persons, proper
care and attention.
Although several cases were visited and investigated during the
year, it was only necessary to take action in three cases; a woman