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Another problem which arises occasionally is the accumulation
over a period of years of rubbish in rooms to such an extent as to
constitute a public health nuisance. One example of this kind was
discovered, following a complaint, in the ground and first floor rooms
of a house. Removal was beyond the powers of the tenants as no
less than eleven tons of rubbish had to be taken away. Subsequently,
the tenants were instructed to have the rooms cleansed. The cost
of the removal of the rubbish was charged to the tenants. In this
and other similar cases I would like to take this opportunity of
thanking the Cleansing Department, whose co-operation made the
solution of the problem possible.
AGED AND INFIRM PERSONS.—There were 159(129) current
cases on the records of the Department at the end of the year. One
hundred (72) cases were brought to notice during 1955. The women
visitors made 1,302(1,622) visits and the male inspectors 66(48)
visits during the year.
Holiday Home.—During the year 962(979) applications for
holidays were received and 654(642) guests were accommodated.
Two hundred and forty-six applicants refused the holiday offered
(mainly on account of illness or because the dates allocated were too
early or too late). In the remaining 62 cases no allocation was made
due to death, removal from the Borough, unfitness, or to single
rooms or specified dates not being available.
Home bathing.—This work is done by the female attendant from
the Medicinal Baths and 359(406) baths were given. The figures
given here will indicate that within the limits of our resources this
service is providing a real need to those who through age or infirmity
are unable to fend for themselves. There are isolated difficult cases
met with, where the need for personal washing at home is not looked
upon favourably by the person concerned, but generally speaking
Mrs. Hurley, who carries out this service, is a welcome visitor.
Laundry service.—This service continues to justify itself and
the District Nursing Association and our Visitors find this facility
of considerable help in their efforts to ease the burden of age and
infirmity. The number of cases being dealt with at the end of the
year was nine (eight). Ten (eleven) people received help from this
service during the year.
National Assistance Acts, 1948-1951.—The need for speedier
action in certain circumstances which could be effected by the
provisions of the National Assistance (Amendment) Act, 1951, if so
authorised by the Council, provided that the proposed action is
supported by another registered practitioner, was felt to be desirable.
This aspect was considered by the Public Health Committee and as
a result of their recommendation the Council have authorised me to
exercise the powers with regard to the removal to suitable premises
of persons in need of care and attention prescribed by Section 1 of
the National Assistance (Amendment) Act, 1951. As in the past,
the Chairman or Vice-Chairman of the Committee will be consulted
before acting on the authority delegated to me. It was not found
necessary to apply to the Courts for a compulsory removal order
during 1955.