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34
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.
The provision of a third van, in July, 1960, enabled the meals service
to be extended to certain areas of the City not adequately covered at
that time, and in which there was a need for meals. It is pleasing to note
that the provision of this third van has enabled the service to be brought
to many more old people in Westminster.
A total of 21,910 meals were delivered during 1963, an increase of
2,284 on the previous year. This is the highest number of meals ever
delivered in Westminster.
During June, 1963, a bunch of roses was delivered by the Society to
every old person having meals from the Westminster Meals on Wheels
Service—a kindness welcomed by the old people.
This service is dependent on the help of a small band of willing
volunteers who turn out regularly, whatever the weather, to assist in
delivering meals to the old people in their homes. The invaluable service
rendered by the Society and the voluntary helpers is much appreciated
by all concerned.
Luncheon Clubs
The British Red Cross Society operate a luncheon club for the elderly,
in accommodation provided by the City Council in Monck Street. The
club operates on two days per week, and provides a convenient centre
where elderly persons who are not housebound can have a hot meal at a
modest price, and enjoy the company of others.
The meals are purchased by the Society from the caterers who supply
the meals for the mobile service, and are conveyed in insulated containers
to the club, where they are served by voluntary workers.
As in the case of the "Meals on Wheels" service, the price paid
to the caterers was increased in July, 1962, to 2s. per meal; the old
people pay 8d. per meal, the London County Council paid Is. Id., and
the City Council bore the balance of 3d. per meal. Here again, the
London County Council subvention was discontinued in April, 1963, when
the City Council became responsible for the whole of the balance, amounting
to Is. 4d. per meal.
The City Council also makes a grant to the British Red Cross Society
of 75 per cent. of the costs of running the Club, as well as bearing the
cost of equipment. During 1963, a total of 2,604 meals were served at
this Club.
As mentioned previously, mid-day meals are also supplied on five
days per week by the Westminster Old People's Welfare Association at
the Day Club at Sherborne House. During 1963, a total of 5,414 meals
were supplied.