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during the year were offered to and filled by the Welfare Officer,
Kent County Council. With less than one vacancy per month
arising, and due to our obligations to the Kent County
Council, it has been necessary to refuse many applications from
individuals and other organisations.
"The difficulty of arranging admission of sick residents to
hospital has had the effect of lowering the general standard of
health of residents. This tendency will continue until more
hospital accommodation is provided for the chronically sick.
"At present, although the general standard can be described
as 'fair,' some of the old people are becoming noticeably more
feeble and helpless, and two old ladies are quite unable to look
after themselves. These two require continual nursing and care
night and day, and to a degree which, in fairness to the old
people themselves and to the staff, cannot be provided in the
Home of any voluntary organisation.
"Two doctors make routine weekly calls and emergency
visits whenever necessary. Residents are referred to hospital for
surgical or medical specialists' treatment, etc. A chiropodist
visits the Home regularly.
"The residents enjoyed many concerts and film shows given
in the Home by local organisations and friends. Invitations to
attend parties held by the Over 60 Club and Old Age Pensioners
were accepted, and a number of the residents visit friends in the
vicinity and also the cinema. Home entertainments are, however,
the most popular with the majority.
"During the summer the Mayor of Bromley presided at a
very successful fete held in the garden. This proved to be an
event of some importance in the lives of the residents, and the
standard of work on their handicraft stall did them no little
credit.
"Each resident is given a weekly allowance with which to
buy sweets, cigarettes or tobacco. Periodicals are provided daily.
"Gifts of clothing, food parcels and books have been gratefully
received throughout the year.
"Total expenditure during the financial year ending 1.10.49
was just under £3,000, and exceeded income by £330. This gave
an all-in cost of £2 3s. lid. per resident per week, which is
increased to £2 9s. 9d. after taking into account Central Office
administrative expenses."