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and servers, and much depended on the speed and efficiency with which they carried out their
duties in all weathers. Delay at any stage of the preparation of the meal, or its delivery to the
old people, can affect them considerably as they have come to rely on it. There is no doubt
that this is a very valuable service and ensures that a large n umber of elderly people, the
majority of whom have only basic state pensions and allowances, receive a good hot meal each
day.
In addition, those who attend the luncheon clubs find companionship which would otherwise
often be lacking.
It is hoped, when financial considerations permit, that there will be further expansion of
both the domiciliary meals and luncheon club facilities.
(ii) Weekend Meals Service
For some time now concern has been felt about a small number of persons who live
alone and have no one at the weekends to prepare meals for them. This problem was highlighted
during the four day break last Christmas, when arrangements were made at short notice
to deliver meals to about 15 very elderly persons on Christmas Day and Boxing Day. Arising
from this experience, arrangements have now been made for the commencement, on a limited
scale, of meals to about 30-35 elderly people on Saturdays and Sundays. It seems very probable
this demand will increase in the coming years, but it will be a very worthwhile service.
(iii) Social Clubs
The social club at Fulham Road continued to provide pleasure and interest for a number
of elderly residents. It was open five days each week from 10.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m. In addition
the 28 clubs run by voluntary organisations - which open on one or more afternoons - continued
to do good work.
There is, however, clearly room for expansion in this field and it would be a happy
state if there was a full-time club for the elderly in each part of the Borough. Loneliness can be
one of the real tragedies of old age but much can be done to try and reduce its effects.
(iv) Visiting and Advice
Social workers have continued to pay periodic visits to the elderly people to try and help
with any problems. Housing and Rent Act problems often trouble the elderly tenant who is
likely to be bewildered by the complexity of recent legislation and with the problems of daily
living in a fast-changing world.
In addition there are a large number of daily problems and crises which call for immediate
attention and in which the social workers endeavour to give practical help or advice. Such
requests cover a surprisingly wide range and often tax the capabilities of the most experienced
of officers.
(v) Volunteer Help Service
This service continued to expand and during the year was able to help a considerable
number of residents. Assistance was given to the housebound elderly and the disabled in
particular, with shopping, window cleaning, wood chopping, gardening, friendly visiting, and
home decorating. Volunteers from the schools, youth clubs, and members of the general public
all gave of their leisure time to assist in this very worthwhile service, and thanks are recorded
to them all. It is hoped that the service will be able to be expanded in the coming years as it
is an extremely valuable addition to the main domiciliary services and often means so much to
the receipient and can be very satisfying to the donor. It is an excellent example of the statutory
authority using voluntary help for the benefit of the community.
(vi) Holidays, Outings and Entertainments for the Elderly
Over 450 elderly persons enjoyed a holiday during 1967 under arrangements made by the
welfare services and, in addition, a number of outings and theatre trips were organised. A large
number of parties took place just before Christmas in Fulham Old Town Hall and Hammersmith
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