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26
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 139 bodies,
and post-mortem examinations were carried out in 138
cases. 20 inquests were held. 47 bodies were from the Erith
area, and post-mortem examinations were carried out in 46
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 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 continued. A dinner and entertainment
was arranged for 40 pensioners who were alone
for Christmas.
The Committee is proceeding with plans for 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 two burials under the provisions of the
above Act.
Case No. 1. Deceased, a Lithuanian, was 45 years of age.
had no known relatives, and died in the premises in which
he lodged.
Case No. 2. Deceased was a male, aged 82, who died
in his home. He was a widower, and although relatives were
traced they were unable to bear the cost of burial.