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Task Force volunteers carried out 137 decorating jobs and 560 other
jobs, such as window cleaning and gardening and escort duties were
undertaken.
Much of the work performed by Task Force is carried out during
the weekends, when the recognised statutory and voluntary services are
not available. From 11th June, 1967, when detailed records were first
kept, 172 emergency jobs were carried out by Task Force,, The number
of volunteers recruited is encouraging as is the widening variety of
tasks being undertaken. Consequently more elderly persons are
benefiting. Many letters of appreciation have been received, especially
for the arrangements which were made for the well-being of lonely
elderly persons over the Christmas holidays. Relations with other
voluntary organisations have been consolidated and an interchange of
services and information is now working satisfactorily.
Voluntary Services
Some forty to forty-five 'freelance' voluntary visitors have been
engaged during the year in visiting regularly one elderly person each.
Also, the very active Good Neighbours scheme which was started in the
Chelsea area has expanded to cover most of the borough. Over 100
voluntary visitors from churches in the borough, of all denominations,
as well as individuals, are providing a very valuable contribution to
this work. An essential feature of a voluntary visiting service,
particularly where more than one scheme is functioning is good
co-ordination. This has been materially assisted by the special appointment
agreed by the Council of a Liaison Officer whose help and advice has
been warmly welcomed by many voluntary organisations.
It is of interest to note that during the past year some twenty
talks have been given to organisations and groups of people regarding
the welfare services available to the handicapped and elderly of the
borough.
The Kensington Day Centre Limited
Close liaison was maintained with the Centre, which has a membership
of 350 elderly and handicapped persons. It is open each weekday and
provides recreational facilities and occupational therapy, a chiropody
service, hairdressing and bathing facilities, library service and
midday meals. Attendances average sixty per day.
A hydraulic tail-lift coach, with driver, is provided by the
Council to transport the handicapped to and from the Centre.
The work of the Kensington Day Centre makes a significant
contribution to the services provided by the Council and is greatly
appreciated.
OTHER FEATURES OF THE WORK OF THE DEPARTMENT
Determination of Liability of Local Authority
Section 32 of the National Assistance Act, 1948, provides that
the local authority in whose area a person is "ordinarily resident"
shall be responsible for the cost of assistance provided by any other
local authority. Cases of disagreement are determined by the Minister
of Health. It has not been necessary to date to refer any cases for
arbitration to the Minister, and all cases in doubt have been amicably
resolved.
Registration and Inspection of Voluntary and Private Homes for the Aged
and Infirm
The National Assistance Act, 1948 Section 26, enables local
authorities to make use of accommodation for aged and infirm persons