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It is not generally realised that a large number of old people become
house-bound simply because of neglected minor foot troubles which is not
their own fault. Obesity, heart-trouble, rheumatism and such other
"restrictive illnesses" prevent many of the older people from attending to
their feet, consequently a minor complaint such as a simple in-growing toenail
when neglected can cause unnecessary suffering.
The Foot Clinic Service provided alternatively, on Mondays, at the
William Preye Club and the Red Cross Centre are doing excellent work, and
in addition the British Red Cross Society attend many old people in their
homes. During the year this service has also increased and to assist in
its work the Association have granted £50 to the British Red Cross Society.
Edmonton, as a token of their appreciation for the services given to the
old people.
"S.O.S." Card Service—Provides for the issue of "S.O.S." Cards to
physically handicapped and aged persons living alone who may become
seriously ill and require immediate medical attention. The cards are issued
only on the authority of the Medical Officer of Health and a register of
cards issued is kept in the Public Health Department.
The Area Health Department maintains close contact with the old
people through the work of the Health Visitors who are also able to advise
the old people of the other Welfare Services available in the Borough.
Twenty-six persons have been registered under this scheme.
Information and Assistance.—A number of editions of “The NewsLetter"
have been circulated to the Clubs and interested organisations, which
is the best means of getting information quickly to the greatest number of
people possible.
The William Preye Club.—There was never any doubt in the mind of the
Association for the need for the Club but it was not anticipated that within
less than 18 months it would have to restrict the membership to 250 members.
The present membership of the Club is now over 200 members, with an
average daily attendance of 40-50 members. The most popular day of the
week is Friday, when a whist drive is held, but there is always a large attendance
for the Sewing Corner on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
The Management Committee have held monthly meetings and encouraged
the members in their activities, and the outstanding events of the past
year have been the “Autumn Fair" which raised over £82; the Christmas
Party for members; the purchase of the billiard table; the donation of £100
from the Funds of the Edmonton Borough Council towards the cost of running
the Club; the visit of Lt.-General Sir Arthur Dowler, Secretary of the
King George VI Foundation, who considered that the Club was "a model
of its kind in London' and "only one better in the country the visit of
the Student Matrons from all parts of the country, and a number of other
distinguished visitors.
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