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27
"The W.V.S. Residential Club remains full and there is a long
waiting list. A vacancy occurred during the year by one resident
being removed permanently to a nursing home; this was filled by
a man.
We have had forty residents there since the opening six years
ago. The ages vary from 67 to 91. Whilst they are still ablebodied
and take a pride in the various jobs they do. i.e.. gardening,
woodwork, odd jobs, sewing, knitting, handicrafts, etc., they are
that much older.
We attribute their well-being to the excellent care given them
by the Warden, the good food and warmth of the house, their
feeling of having a home of their own (their bed-sitting room)
within the larger unit of the Club, and to keeping them occupied
so that they feel they still have a contribution to make to the
common good. The garden produce helps to keep a good supply
of fresh fruit and vegetables and eggs, which we again feel to be a
tremendous asset.
It has been possible, by careful management, to maintain the
fees at last year's level, i.e., £2 14s. 0d. The major proportion pay
their own fees, some are subsidised by the Local Authority.
A Library Service is run with the help of the Borough Library.
Books are brought in and exchanged every fortnight.
Billiards and entertainments of all sorts help to provide
recreation."
"Homefield" and "Elmwood," Southborough Road, Bickley.
The Bermondsey Medical Mission run the above Homes, and
I am indebted to the matron for the following information:—
"'Homefield,' which functions as a half-way house between
Hospital and Home, admitted 108 elderly women during the past
year, the greater number being able to return to their own homes
after varying lengths of stay.
The year has been one of quiet consolidation. During the
summer the main event was of course the Coronation, enjoyed with
Television and a special tea. Kind friends also took small parties
for short car rides into the country.
Much valuable help has been given by members of the W.V.S.
Their weekly visit with the 'shop' and serving of teas is a pleasure
much looked forward to.
'Elmwood' was opened as an Old Ladies Home (Part III
Accommodation), in December. 1952, and permission was given to
accommodate fifteen persons until such time as an addition to the
house was completed. The addition consisted of two four-bedded
rooms on the ground floor and further washing and lavatory
accommodation. This work is now nearly completed and it is
hoped to increase the numbers to twenty-four in the near future.