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During the year, seven couples were referred to Probation
Officers and the Marriage Guidance Council for advice on matrimonial
problems arising out of the strain of prolonged illness,
Arrangements were also made through the Children's Officer and
in co-operation with the Day Nurseries for ten children whose
mothers were unable to care for them because of tuberculosis, and
where no family arrangements could be made. In 37 cases, Home
Help was arranged when the mother of a family was recommended
bed rest at home.
In the field of rehabilitation, close liaison was maintained with
the Ministry of Labour. Under the Disabled Persons Scheme,
three men were placed at the Bermondsey Re-employ factory, and
two at the new Waddon Re-employ factory. 53 persons were
registered as disabled, and of those who were unfit to return to
their former employment, training courses were arranged in subjects
which include shorthand and typing, book-keeping, watch
and clock repairing, chiropody, tailoring and typewriter
mechanics.
Arising out of these activities, 351 visits were paid to patients'
homes.
CONVALESCENCE.
The Corporation accept financial responsibility for convalescent
treatment for approved cases, subject to recovery of cost
according to the income of the patient. The conditions imposed
are that convalescence must follow some definite illness or accident,
must be recommended by a doctor, and taken at a recognised
convalescent home. During the year, 51 cases were dealt with,
36 being adults (male, 13; female, 23) and 15 children. These
figures do not include school children for whom arrangements are
made by the Education Committee.
LOAN OF NURSING EQUIPMENT.
The Corporation loan equipment and make a small weekly
charge, with exemption for incomes below a certain figure. During
the year the undermentioned loans were made:—
Bed Pans 190 Air Beds 34
Air Cushions 268 Feeding Cup 16
Bed Rests 107 Sputum Mug 3
Bed Cradles 20 Wheel Chair 2
Rubber Bed Pan 46 Thermometer 1
Urinals 59 Dunlopillo Mattress 3
Kidney Dish 5 Bed Table 7
Douche Can 5 Crutches 1
Mackintosh Sheets 257 Commode 1
1,025