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enables a number of disabled old persons, who were formerly confined
1 argely to their own homes, to participate in the happy atmosphere which
prevails at the Club.
British Red Cross Society—Mobile Meals Service
During 1961, the Westminster Division of the British Red Cross
Society continued the service which it established in the City in December,
1946, for the delivery of hot mid-day meals to the homes of old people
who are themselves unable to prepare meals at home. In June, 1959,
in an endeavour to provide more balanced and nourishing meals for old
people, the price paid to the caterers was increased from Is. 6rI. to Is. 10d.
per meal and as a result the menus improved considerably. The price
charged to the old people remained unchanged at 8d. per meal; in
February, 1960, the London County Council's contribution was increased
to 11d. per meal and the balance of 3d. per meal is borne by the CityCouncil.
The service had previously been operated with two vans provided by
the City Council and loaned to the Society on the understanding that
they will be returned to the Council if they cease to be used for the
service. The City Council also makes an annual grant to the Society of
75 per cent, of the running costs of the vans. In July, 1960, at the
Society's request, the City Council agreed that a third van should be
purchased and loaned to the Society on the same conditions. The
provision of the third van has enabled meals to be delivered more frequently,
particularly in the Soho area, and also extended the service to
certain areas of the City not adequately covered and in which there was
a need for meals. It is pleasing to note that the provision of the third
van has enabled this service to be brought to many more old people in
Westminster.
The number of meals delivered during the year reached a total of
20,500, the highest total since the meals service commenced in Westminster
in 1946.
The Mobile Meals Service is dependent upon the help of a small band
of willing volunteers who turn out regularly, whatever the weather, to
assist in delivering the meals to old people in their homes. The invaluable
service rendered by the Society and the voluntary helpers is much appreciated
by all concerned.
Luncheon Clubs
Up to July, 1961, the British Red Cross Society operated luncheon
clubs for the elderly in accommodation on one of the Council's Housing
Estates, and in City Council premises in Monck Street. Both clubs