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(xiii) The Deaf
There are about 150 deaf persons in the Borough and these received
some services through the Royal Association for the Deaf and Dumb who act as
agents for local authorities in the London area. There is an excellent Social
Centre and Church in Old Oak Road and many of our deaf attended the various
activities.
(xiv) The Deaf-Blind
The deaf-blind continue to meet on Wednesday afternoons in the Hall
at St. Vincent's. Several volunteers assist with this very essential service
to these doubly-disabled persons.
Although the number of deaf-blind in the Borough is fortunately very
small, only about 10 persons, it is a very worthwhile service and enables
them to lead a fuller life.
Miscellaneous Services
(i) Protection of property
Responsibility was accepted for protecting the moveable property of a
number of persons admitted to hospital or Residential Homes and who were
unable to act for themselves and had no responsible relative willing to
undertake the duty. This involves the taking of inventories, arranging
for the care of pets, notifying gas and electricity companies, the police,
and other interested persons, that the Department is acting for the person
concerned. Attention is given to correspondence and periodic visits made to
the residence to ensure safe custody. In certain cases storage of furniture
was arranged and sometimes with the consent of the owner the sale or disposal
of effects. Over 400 cases have been assisted since 1965, and of
these 93 were dealt with during 1968.
(ii) Receivership
At the request of the Court of Protection I have acted as Receiver in
cases where the person is in a Psychiatric Hospital, or Home and is incapable
of managing their affairs. At the present time there are 16 such cases.
Assistance was given in dealing with the estates of deceased persons
where there is no other person to act.
(iii) Supportive Services
The Welfare Services are very large users of the Home Help service
which has been of tremendous value to a large number of elderly persons in
the Borough. The Chiropody Service was also extensively used by elderly
people, treatment being given both in their own homes, at the various
Clinics, and in Residential Homes where the Chiropodist visits at regular
intervals.
(iv) Liaison with Voluntary Bodies
In accordance with Council policy, a close liaison has been kept with
the many voluntary bodies in the Borough who have a particular interest in
those persons who are also the main concern of the welfare services. There
has been a tremendous fund of goodwill and willing help and as a result much
has been achieved. Thanks are due to the British Red Cross Society, the
W.R.V.S., Bishop Creighton House, Family Welfare Association, and many others
interested in the needs of the aged blind, disabled and deaf.
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