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161
Christmas Shopping Expedition
Many handicapped people are virtually homebound. Many
others have extreme difficulty in shopping, particularly at times of
the year when the pavements and shops are exceptionally crowded.
For this reason a Christmas Shopping Expedition for about
160 physically handicapped persons was arranged for Wednesday
evening, 4th December. Invaluable assistance was received from
a number of large stores in central Woolwich, which closed late
especially for this purpose. Transport, consisting of 16 vehicles,
was provided by the Council to convey the handicapped to and
from the shops and 130 voluntary helpers, mainly members of
"Task Force", were recruited to push wheelchairs and generally
assist the shoppers. First-aiders were provided by the British Red
Cross Society. The expedition was very greatly appreciated by
the handicapped persons who participated. Our thanks are
extended to Messrs. F. W. Woolworth & Co. Ltd., British Home
Stores and Garrett & Co., who thoughtfully provided light refreshments
free of charge.
Transport
For many handicapped people, one of the most distressing
features of their disability is a severe impairment of mobility. A
suitable means of transport for such people is a prime necessity in
fostering interests and activities outside the home. Indeed, the
success of all functions arranged for these groups depends upon
its adequacy and the ready co-operation of the drivers.
The Council's transport for the disabled comprises a fleet of
minibuses and six specially designed coaches equipped with a taillift
for loading the severely disabled. Each coach can accommodate
up to three patients in wheelchairs in addition to those in
the passenger seats. These vehicles are used mainly to convey
people, who are unable to use normal transport, to clubs and
centres organised by the Council and numerous voluntary agencies.
Transport is also provided by the department for holiday schemes
and occasional outings.
Future Development
Considerable scope for the improvement and expansion of
services for the handicapped exists which can only be fully satisfied
when finances become readily available. Notwithstanding, it is
anticipated that, in the near future, the opening of further combined
centres will provide urgently needed facilities for handicapped
persons.