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travelling exhibition of aids for the disabled held an exhibition at
the old Public Library, Bromley.
Adaptations of property have been completed at the homes of
83 handicapped persons at a cost of £2,226. An unusual request
came from a disabled man who is fond of gardening. He is confined
to a wheelchair, having had both legs amputated. Arrangements
were made for a special track and lifting hoist to be fitted
to his house so that he could enter and leave his sunken garden.
Special Transport—The service has continued to expand with the
purchase of two more specially adapted vehicles. The Council now
has 5 vehicles which are used to transport handicapped people.
More work has been taken on including transporting severely
disabled persons to the Conquest Swimming Club, Beckenham, and
the Orpington Young Handicapped Club. Without the aid of the
special tail-lifts on the vehicles, it would be impossible to transport
persons in wheelchairs to the various activities which are available
for handicapped persons.
Difficulties have been experienced in maintaining the transport
services due to the prolonged ill-health of two drivers, and for
two months one vehicle was off the road as a result of an accident.
Thanks to the co-operation of the British Red Cross Society, the
Beckenham, Bromley and Orpington Old People's Welfare and St.
Cecilia's Home, in permitting the Council to use their vehicles,
the transport services did not have to be curtailed.
Bromley Association for the Handicapped—The Association had a
busy year and continued to flourish. Close liaison has been
established between the Association and the Health and Welfare
Department, and this is illustrated by the joint publication of a
very informative leaflet outlining the services for handicapped
persons.
The highlight of the Association's work was organising a
one-day conference on the "Young Handicapped and the Future".
This was attended by a cross-section of the general public and
professional welfare workers. The Association played its part
making the annual "Help the Disabled Week" a success. The
B.A.T.H. Newsletter is of great value in circulating information to
members.
Penge Work Centre—In April, 1969, a full-time Supervisor was
appointed to take charge of the Centre. Renovations including
fluorescent lighting and power points have been carried out in the
main work room which has enabled machinery such as drilling
machines to be brought into use. Handrails have been fitted in the
toilets to assist the more seriously disabled, and benches have been
made for persons working from a wheelchair. The average
attendance is 75 persons per week. The dining-room can seat 20