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facilities be available. Where none exists the Ministry provides a
storage shed and bears the expense involved in providing a base for
it. In co-operation with the Ministry, the local authority usually
arranges for the work to be done. Where the shed is erected in
the client's garden, work in providing concrete paths, pavement
cross-overs, etc., is carried out at the same time.
Analysis of Adaptations
Grab rails 10
Toilet adaptations 2
Access ways, etc., to Invalid Tricycle Sheds 2
Wooden ramps 3
Interior adaptations for wheelchair access 1
Heating 2
20
Occupation in the Home
40. Handicapped persons who are capable and desirous of
engaging in any handicraft or skilled activity may be assisted by
the local authority through the three occupations officers employed.
Each officer is a member of the team attached to one of the Area
Offices at Orpington, Bromley and Penge. In the first half of the
year 1965/66 only one officer was employed but, on the appointment
of the other two in August, 1965, the service has expanded
rapidly. In addition to giving instruction in basketry, rug work,
sea-grass work, knitting, crochet, toy making, etc.. the occupation
officers have been successful in introducing outwork to several
disabled clients. Outwork obtained from local firms involves simple
assembly operations which, though repetitive and possibly boring
in themselves, do provide a means whereby the individual can earn
a small amount of money for the labour involved. Although money
rewards are small, the persons concerned derive satisfaction from
the knowledge that they are contributing something worthwhile
to the community.
41. The occupations officers made 2,249 visits to clients in the
course of the year and also visited the residential homes to give
instruction to interested residents. At 31st March, 1966, there were
151 persons engaged in occupational work: