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C (11) Mortuary
An up to date mortuary exists with refrigeration for 6
bodies to serve the Boroughs of Erith and Bexley and the
Urban District of Crayford. This building is situated at the
ear of the Council Offices, Bexley.
During the year the mortuary accommodated 122 bodies
ind post-mortem examinations were carried out in 114 cases.
22 inquests were held. 44 bodies were from the Erith area,
and postmortem examinations were carried out in 39 cases.
There were 8 inquests.
C (12) Disinfection and Disinfestation of Bedding,
Clothing, etc.
A joint arrangement is in existence with the Bexley
Borough Council for the disinfection and disinfestation of
bedding, clothing, etc.
There is, also, a cleansing station for dealing with verminous
persons.
In the case of notifiable infectious disease, the service is
carried out free of charge.
It is also available to authorities who wish to make use
of the facilities and in these cases a charge is made based on
the cost of the work.
C (13) Welfare of Old People
The work of the Erith Old People's Welfare Committee
continued throughout the year and much good work was done
in visiting and provision of good neighbourly services. In
addition it has been possible in certain cases of extreme difficulty
to arrange assistance in cash or kind.
During the year the Committee arranged a week's holiday
by the sea for a coach load of needy old age pensioners in May
and three coach loads in September. This scheme has been
developed, and 1955 promises to show even larger numbers
sent on holiday.
The Committee also arranged a Christmas dinner and
entertainment for 200 old people on Boxing Day.
C (14) National Assistance Act, 1948, Section 50 (Burials)
During the year it was necessary for the Council to carry
Out one burial under the provisions of the above Act.
In this case deceased was 93 years of age and did not
qualify for a burial grant. The death occurred in a local
Nursing Home and the only relative was a step sister-in-law
who was unable to pay for the cost of burial.