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15
The Scheme proved an unqualified success as was evidenced by the
large number of appreciation letters received and in other ways.
I am of the opinion that a holiday benefits considerably the permanent
health of the individual, builds up the body for the winter
months and is of considerable value socialogically. All this apart
from the pleasure and enjoyment given to the aged persons at the time.
(iii) Meal Services
(a) Many of the aged, particularly those who live alone, are apt
to take insufficient food, not only because of expense but also because
of the difficulty and trouble involved in preparing a satisfactory meal
for one. Dinner services, therefore, have been instituted through
voluntary associations throughout the borough. A grant is given to
the associations by the Council to cover their expenses and further
grants are made by the London County Council and Finsbury Old People's
Welfare Committee to enable the meals to be supplied at a cost of tenpence
per head to the aged. During 1956 a total of 21,805 meals were
served from such centres. The centres in operation which are open on
3-5 days a week are:
1. Women's Voluntary Service, 68 Exmouth Market, E.C.1.
2. British Red Cross Society, Old People's Centre, 9, Walmsley
Street E.C.1.
3. Field Lane Institution, 16, Vine Hill, Clerkenwell Road, E.C.1.
4. Claremont Central Mission, White Lion Street, N. 1.
5. St. Clement's Hall, Lever Street. E.C.1.
(b) Invalid Meals for London:
Aged persons, who are unable by reason of sickness and infirmity
to attend one of the Meal Centres run by the various voluntary organisations.
were supplied with a meal delivered at their home. There is,
however, a restricted service and there is often a waiting list of
applicants.
The Council makes a substantial grant to the Invalid Meals for
London in respect of this service and 13, 746 meals were supplied during
1956
(iv) Finsbury Employment Scheme for the Elderly:
This Scheme continued to develop and to expand during the year
under review.