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In early 1970, despite staffing difficulties, both social work
and residential teams carried on their responsibilities for the families
undauntedly. The Homeless Families Service interviewed 257 families of
whom 69 were admitted, 73 were discharged, including 40 nominated for
rehousing.
Mother and Baby Units
The Council accepted financial responsibility for 41 unmarried girls
before confinement; and after confinement, 11 with their babies, by
arrangement with Welcare and with the Crusade of Rescue.
Domiciliary Services
It is estimated that there are about 30,000 people over pensionable
age living in the Borough and at any one time approximately 10% will be
receiving one or more of the local authority domiciliary serviceso
The main services include:
(i) Meals
About 1,350 meals were provided daily, of which 850 went to old
people in their own homes and about 450 to those who attended
the 13 luncheon clubs situated in different parts of the Borough.
These clubs vary in attendance from 15 to 70 persons. Roughly
100 meals were provided each day for the City of Westminster
under an agency arrangement for persons residing in the western
end of that particular Borough Approximately 120 invalid meals
were also delivered and were provided under health powers.
This large daily operation involved 19 vehicles and 36 staff
mainly driving and serving and much depended upon 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 effect them considerably
because of their reliance upon it. This is a most valuable
service and ensures that many of the aged, the majority of whom
have only a basic state pension and allowances,receive a good
hot meal each day
In addition, those who attend the luncheon clubs can find
companionship which might otherwise be lacking. It is hoped
that when financial considerations permit, there will be an
expansion of both the domiciliary meals and luncheon club
provision.
(ii) Weekend Meals Service
This service continues to help the very small group of housebound
elderly and disabled who are unable to make any other
arrangements at the weekend or on public holidays. Roughly 60
people are so assisted.
(iii) Social Clubs
The social club at Fulham Road still gives pleasure and interest
to a number of elderly residents. It is open 5 days each week
from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Additionally,the 28 clubs organised by
voluntary associations and those for the blind at St. Simon's
Church Hall and at Bishop Creighton House maintain their good
work.
D.11