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82
discharge was 78 years compared to 84 years in the previous year—
whereas the average age of discharge in local authority homes was
84 years compared with 82 years in the previous year. It follows
that comparisons of this nature need to be made over a long term
rather than a short term to ascertain whether there is any validity
in drawing conclusions about the effect on residents of the earlier
age of admission to voluntary homes. The expanding domiciliary
services, including day centres, seem to be limiting the demand for
full residential care to those of very advanced years. Voluntary
homes in adapted premises without lifts find increasing difficulty
in filling vacancies with residents fit enough to negotiate stairs.
Charges for Accommodation
The standard charge for accommodation provided in the
Borough's eight homes was raised from £10 0s. Id. to £11 9s. 3d.
per week on the 30th October, 1967. Only 33 residents were
assessed to pay this amount for their accommodation; the cost to
the local authority increased from £11 17s. 3d. per resident per
week in 1966/67 to £11 18s. 7d. in 1967/68. This compares with
an average of £11 16s. 5d. for London boroughs.
Registration and Inspection of Homes
The local authority has a duty to register and inspect homes
run for profit or administered by voluntary committees. With
three new registrations approved during the year the total number
in the Borough is now 29 homes, with applications for three more
registrations under consideration. A fire occurred in one private
home, which placed an elderlv lady in grave danger. The Chief
Fire Officer agreed to review the arrangements at all the registered
homes as a matter of ureency to ensure that they complied fully
with fire prevention reauirements. The advice of the department
was sought to an increased extent bv those proposing to set up
new homes or deciding to improve the facilities. It is vital that
the department's role should be seen as a constructive one aimed
at ensuring the best available care for the elderly, rather than as
a negative one of "red taoe" control. The broadening contacts
with proprietors indicates that there is an acceptance of this viewpoint.
There have been difficulties in one or two cases where
registration had not been sought before residents were admitted.
In order to bring these establishments in to the standard reauired
before registration could be recommended delicate negotiations
had to be conducted, bearing in mind the vulnerability of the
elderly residents in such situations. I acknowledge the verv willing
co-operation of the Fire Prevention Officers of the London Fire
Brigade in examining premises with an understanding of the
problems involved and making recommendations so promptly. The
Chief Public Health Inspector has advised on matters of hygiene