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The Rest Room is very much appreciated by all those who use it. Some
like to come to relax and read, others to play cards, some just to chat; there is
always a welcome from the staff, and the things so dear to most people's hearts
"a cup of tea". There are 70 on the register (60 women and 10 men) and an
average attendance in the Rest Room of about 30.
The Centre does provide a worthwhile service within the community and
there is ample evidence that it has been instrumental in giving a number of old
people a new interest in life.
Clubs
There are now 29 clubs, some meeting two or three times a week, others only
once, but all play a vital part in the welfare of the old people. Activities are
varied, handicrafts, entertainments, cards, outings, parties, and club holidays
are all features enjoyed. Some Clubs have their own visiting committee and
many friendships are made through meeting at the Club.
During the year under review there was an increase in the number of applications
received, and in all, 21 grants were made towards rent or its equivalent,
purchase of equipment, and fees or expenses of entertainers at the clubs. The
Entertainment Grant of up to £5. has helped Clubs to maintain an interest for
their members, and it is hoped that no club has had to cut down on its activities
owing to the lack of finance.
The Association would like to pay tribute to the Club Leaders for their
untiring efforts in bringing happiness to so many lonely old people, and for
their wholehearted support in all the work being done for the aged in the Borough.
The Inter-Club Competition and Exhibition of Work. This was held again in
October and there were over 600 individual items of entry. The judging was
carried out by Miss Cuthbertson, the Principal of the Stockwell and Waterloo
Institute, together with her deputy, Mr. E.C. Thompson and Miss King. The
cookery entries were judged by Mrs. Everard of the South Eastern Gas Board
The very considerable care taken by all the Judges was very much appreciated
and thanks are due to the Mayor and Mayoress who attended and distributed
the prizes. The Competition Shield was again won by the Springfield Club.
Christmas Concerts. Unfortunately, because of the weather, only a few old
people attended the "Club Christmas Concert", but those who did so, enjoyed
their afternoon's entertainment, and sincere thanks are due to Mr. Walker who
compared the afternoon for us.
On the 19th December an Evening Concert was given by the Chatsworth
Choir and the Monotype Works Band. As it was a bitterly cold evening, there
were only about 50 old people present but the evening was very much enjoyed
and we wish to thank both the choir, the band and the conductor, Mr. M. Mitchell.