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arrange for the burial or cremation of any person who dies or is found
dead within the Borough, and where no private arrangements are made
for the disposal of the remains.
Twelve persons were buried under the provisions of this Act during
1955.
Removal of Aged and Infirm Persons to Institutions
Section 47 of this Act provides for securing the necessary care and
attention for the aged and chronic sick by means of an order of the Court.
Several cases were removed either to hospital or County Council homes
for the aged after persuasion, but it was not necessary to invoke Section
47 during the year.
Services for Old People
The voluntary services in the district provide some assistance and recreation
for old people. The W.V.S. have organised five Darby and Joan
Clubs in various parts of the Borough so that one or more is within
reasonable reach of persons living in any part of the District. In
addition, the Albany Institute Old Peoples' Club, although situated just
beyond the Borough boundary, is patronised mainly by Deptford people.
There is no provision, as yet, in Deptford for a laundry service, but I
give details regarding our " Meals on Wheels " service which is carried
out in co-operation with the Women's Voluntary Services Organisation.
About 170 meals are provided to about 130 old people each week. The
meals are obtained from the United Girls School for Social Services at a
cost of Is. 6d. per meal, for which the individuals pay lOd. and the
London County Council pay a subsidy of 8d. per meal (the price is now
under re-consideration). The Council pay the United Girls School
monthly for the cost of the meals.
The Deptford Borough Council provide a vehicle (which was presented
by a local fiim) and a driver, to deliver about 40 meals twice a week to
house-bound old folk and the remainder of the meals to " Darby and
Joan " Clubs. The W.V.S. provide the helpers for delivery of meals.
Shops Act, 1950
In the course of their routine inspection the Sanitary Inspectors paid
attention to the ventilation and temperature of shops and the provision
of washing accommodation and sanitary conveniences.
Baths and Wash-Houses
The Council maintains three swimming baths at Laurie Grove adjoining
the Town Hall. A plant giving continuous filtration and sterilisation
maintains the purity of the water at all times. The plant is capable of
filtering the whole of the water in the baths within four hours and the
system of " break-point" chlorination ensures the purity and safety of
the water even during periods of maximum use.