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WOMEN'S VOLUNTARY SERVICE
I am very grateful to Mrs. J. M. Fisher, the Centre Organizer,
who has submitted the following interesting report on the very valuable
work of the W.V.S.
Derby and Joan Clubs
Three Darby and Joan Clubs in Beckenham and two Over 60's
Clubs in West Wickham are still running in the Borough. Of the
Beckenham Clubs, two are held on Tuesday and one on Thursday
from 1.45 to 4.15 p.m. Membership of the three Clubs in Beckenham
is about 500, and all the members are over 60 years of age. The membership
fee is 1d. and a charge of 3d. is made for tea. Whist Drives, Darts
Matches and Raffles are held each week, and at least two of the Clubs
have talented choirs which entertain not only their own members,
but other organisations as well. A free library is available to members
and there are also plenty of magazines for reading.
Spring and Autumn outings are arranged for the Club members
and in the winter, visits are made to Pantomimes and Ice Shows.
Members also have holidays at reduced rates—out of season—at the
seaside. A Savings Group is run for members who wish to save weekly
towards holidays, outings, etc.
The Clubs are subsidised by voluntary subscriptions. The two
Over 60's Clubs are run in West Wickham with an average membership
of 130-150.
Meals on Wheels
Meals are still served twice a week—Tuesdays and Fridays.
It is a most important service, run principally for the benefit of invalids
and elderly people who live alone and cannot cook for themselves.
The meals are cooked in the Centre by members of the W.V.S. Appeals
for meals usually come from Hospital Almoners, Doctors, and through
the Darby and Joan Clubs. An allowance towards the cost of transport
is made through the local and County Authorities. Cost of the meals
is subsidised by voluntary funds, and those in need are only required
to pay a very small sum for the service. About 36 meals are served
each time.
West Wickham Luncheon Club
Meals for this Luncheon Club are cooked by W.V.S. and only a
nominal charge is made. An average of 35 meals are served weekly, in
addition to an average of 16 Meals on Wheels twice a week.
Old People's Welfare
Visits are made to elderly people who live alone, and assistance is
given with regard to clothing which is supplied free on the authority
of the National Assistance Board, District Nurses, etc.
Hospital Work
Work in connection with Beckenham Hospital has been much
appreciated and consists of help with the Library, flowers and
magazines.
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