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(xiii) 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 500 cases have been assisted since 1965, and of
these 90 were dealt with dujring 1969.
(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 12 such
cases, and two pending.
Assistance was given -in dealing with the estates of deceased persons
where there is no other person co 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 Rfed 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.
(v) Liaison with Government Departments
Close liaison has been maintained with certain government departments
whose work affects the social services. Particular thanks must be afforded
to the local managers of the Department of Health and Social Security who
have continued to give every possible help.
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