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28
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
rear of the Council Offices, Bexley.
During the year the mortuary accommodated 156 bodies
and post-mortem examinations were carried out in 153 cases.
18 inquests were held. 49 bodies were from the Erith area,
and post-mortem examinations were carried out in 47 cases.
There were 6 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 Erith Old People's Welfare Committee continued
its work throughout the year and much was accomplished
in the way of visiting and the provision of good neighbourly
services. The holiday scheme has continued and during 1955
175 old people were sent on a week's holiday by the sea.
A Christmas dinner and entertainment was arranged for 300
lonely old people.
The Committee is now considering ways and means of
providing housing accommodation for lone old people.
C (14) National Assistance Act, 1948,
Section 50 (Burials)
During the year under review it was necessary for the
Council to carry out one burial under the provisions of the
above Act.
Deceased was 81 years of age, had no relatives, and the
death occurred in a local Nursing Home.