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have to apply to the courts for an Order for the compulsory removal to a
hospital in certain particularly difficult cases.
During the year 18 cases were referred to the Department for examination
but only in the following instance was it necessary to take action
under the above Acts.
Mrs. S. age 86 suffering from serious burns of both legs. Both she and
her room were in a filthy condition and she refused to see a Doctor
or have any help. An Order for removal under the Amendment Act was obtained
and she was removed to Hospital This Order was later extended
for a further two months Her condition improved and she was discharged
to a Home in Dorset.
In the other cases it was possible to find a solution either by co-operation
with the family doctor or by making use of available services.
Burial or Cremation of the Dead
It is provided by Section 50 of the National Assistance Act, 1948, that
a local authority shall arrange for burial or cremation in the case of a
person who had died or been found dead in the Borough where it appears to
the Authority that no suitable arrangements have been or are being made for
a funeral.
During the year sixteen burials were carried out.
Hammersmith Old People s Welfare Association
This Association discovers and meets the needs of necessitous old persons
and continued to progress during the year It is a self contained unit
with its office in the Town Hall and with the assistance of many outside
voluntary associations sponsors various activities for the old people including:-
Arrangements for free bathing facilities at the Council's Baths.
Reduction in cost of boot and shoe repairs
Chiropody service
Clubs for Old People
Reduced cost of hairdressing for female Old Age Pensioners
A visiting service whereby a number of friendly people 'adopt'
lated old people.
Holiday schemes
Luncheon clubs
Loans of Wireless sets.
The association also operates a Mobile Meals Service in the Borough.
The Public Health Department works in co-operation with the Association
and both have been able to assist each other during the year in various
matters.
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