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The number of aids loaned to City residents are still increasing year by year. There is no
doubt that the elderly infirm and those with chronic illnesses find the use of walking aids,
wheelchairs, commodes, back-rests and other aids a great help in maintaining some measure of
independence. The aids are also particularly appreciated by supporting relatives.
Chiropody Service
The following reports have been received from Mr. R. Jones, M.Ch.S., S.R.Ch., and Miss
R. Atkins, M.Ch.S., respectively
"From January to December 1970, 415 treatments were given to patients at Gravel Lane
Clinic.
Each patient was seen on average once a month and all the patients were in the 70 plus age
group and suffered with the usual Chiropodial ailments of the aged such as bad callosities, corns
and painful bunion joints.
The number of Diabetic patients seen had not increased during the year.
Patients with the exception of 3 only missed appointments due to sickness or weather
conditions.
With missed appointments the patient could not understand that due to previous bookings
another appointment could not be given immediately, although they were seen on emergencies if
sepsis was present.
All of the patients were very appreciative of the treatment given and in my opinion if we
can keep these old people mobile for several more years the Clinic is doing a very good job."
"The Chiropody Service continued to functionas intheprevious year, except that in AprilChiropody
treatment became free to all patients. Persons treated are those over retirement age and those
physically handicapped.
Chiropody treatment as arranged by The Health Department falls into four categories:Milton
Court
A Chiropody Clinic is run here once a month. Usually six to eight patients are seen at a
session, and during the year about 83 treatments were given.
Salvation Army Hostel
A clinic is held here about every two months. At the beginning of the year the number of men
attending was decreasing, but by the end of 1970 five men regularly attended for much needed
treatment. It is very surprising that the men do not make more use of this service. I understand
that many of the men are not old enough to be eligible, and the necessity to have to wash their
feet deters others from applying! Seven sessions were held during the year, and 29 treatments
were given.
Domiciliary Visits
This service is only for Housebound patients or those too infirm to go to the clinic. There
are about 30 people who are treated in their home, and during the year about 150 treatments were
given.
Sir John Cass's Foundation School
During the year nearly every child in the school had a foot inspection. This included a
"general chat" on Feet, Footwear, Hygiene and Posture, given to them as a group, and then an
examination of each child. After this any necessary treatment is given The children are told
report any foot problems they may have at any time during the year. The children at the school
are very Chiropody conscious, and even know how to pronounce Chiropody correctly! They are