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homes or in old people's homes, and yet could not be taken into hospital.
It considered that if the voluntary organisations, which were doing
such excellent work, could be encouraged and helped to expand their
services, many old people could be enabled to look after themselves more
satisfactorily in their own homes. Even so, the lack of hospital beds
would still remain a serious problem and it considered that every effort
should be made to reduce the shortage.
The Council resolved that the Metropolitan Boroughs' Standing
Joint Committee be asked to consider the whole problem, with a view to
the submission to the Minister of Health of representations on the
following lines:—
(i) That the powers of the Borough Councils under the National
Assistance Act, 1948, to give financial assistance to voluntary
organisations providing meals or recreation for old people, be
extended to enable them to assist other work of such organisations
for the benefit of old people;
(ii) That the present arrangements be reviewed with a view to
requiring the Regional Hospital Boards and the Teaching Hospitals
to make adequate provision for old people in need of hospital care;
and
(iii) That greater provision should be made by the Welfare
Authorities in homes for old people for such as are unable to look
after themselves but do not need the attention and care provided
in hospitals.
At the end of the year these representations were still under consideration
by the Ministry.
Westminster Old People's Welfare Association.
This voluntary Association, whose members are persons and representatives
of various bodies interested in the welfare of old people, continued
its activities in the City during the year. These activities include
the organisation in various parts of the City of Darby and Joan Clubs,
where light refreshments and recreation are provided; arranging holidays
at seaside resorts, summer outings, Christmas parties, and other entertainments.
Special outings and parties were organised during the year for
handicapped old people, who by reason of their infirmities had not been
outside their homes for long periods. The distribution of gift food parcels •
was arranged; and also the visiting by voluntary helpers of the ailing
and lonely in their homes. The Association also provides a chiropody
service for the elderly. Treatment can be obtained at two clinics in the
City, or at home. The charge is Is. per foot per treatment; the balance
of cost, which varies from 3s. to 6s. per treatment, is borne by the
Association. Recently arrangements have been made by the Association
whereby paid work which can be done at home has been made available
to the elderly in the City.