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removal of such persons who are in need of care and attention, and
are unable to look after themselves. A Court Order must be
obtained before such action can be taken and this procedure would
be used only as a last resort. These cases call for co-operation
with the Welfare Officer of the Kent County Council, who may be
able to provide appropriate services. The Old People's organisations
assist where possible, and I am pleased to note that a Young
Pioneers organisation has been formed at a local school, where
scholars have undertaken to assist in suitable tasks. The Staff
of the Department also helps where possible and always bears the
aim of rehabilitation in mind.
It was not necessary to arrange any compulsory removal in
1962, but at least four cases were investigated.
Section 50
Burial of the Dead.
The National Assistance Act, 1948, also places upon Local
Authorities the duty of providing for the interment or cremation of
bodies when no other arrangements are being made. There is now
only a small percentage of the population not covered by " Death
Grants " which enable funeral expenses to be met.
From time to time, however, enquiries are made by relatives
or others and the circumstances have to be investigated. In no
instances during 1962, was it necessary to instruct an undertaker
to carry out interment.
NURSING HOMES.
There was no change in the number of registered Nursing
Homes during 1962. The Homes were inspected at frequent intervals
during the year, but at no time were any contraventions found
which called for action on the part of the local authority. Inspections
are also carried out of premises which it is proposed to open
as Nursing Homes, so that the proprietors may be acquainted of
works necessary before registration can be granted.