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service is supplemented by the British Red Cross Society who
supply the smaller nursing aids and wheelchairs on temporary loan.
Car Badges
Car badges are issued to severely disabled drivers to help
them overcome parking difficulties. The badge does not confer any
legal right to park in restricted areas. At 31st December, 1968,
234 disabled drivers were in possession of a car badge. During the
period 1st April to 31st December, 1968, 35 new badges were
issued and 27 badges were renewed. The badges are available for
three years from the date of issue and are re-issued if the disabled
driver changes his car.
Occupational Work
Early in 1968, two work centres were operating, both on a
part-time basis. The larger one at Penge, catering for 20 clients,
opened for three days per week and work undertaken there
included assembly of electrical components and the packaging of
plastic toys. The smaller centre at St. Paul's Cray took an average
4—6 clients on two days per week and carried out similar work to
that at Penge. During the year these centres were amalgamated
into a larger unit at Penge, thereby providing one centre functioning
all the week with 35 persons on the register. The St. Paul's Cray
centre was discontinued because the facilities were very limited and
access difficult. Industrial work was also provided for clients who
were housebound. They assisted with the manufacture of files and
folders which were supplied to various departments of the Borough
and local hospitals. Other work provided at home included the
trimming and packing of plastic goods. The number of handicapped
persons receiving this service at home was 45. The three
Occupations Officers continued to teach handicrafts to handicapped
persons in their own homes, to supply and collect out-work
materials and to share the responsibility of supervising the work
centres. Staff from the Department manned a stall at the Combined
Charities Fair held in November. Articles made by the handicapped
were sold to the value of £30.
Holidays
During the summer of 1968, 122 physically handicapped
persons, together with 7 escorts, were provided with holidays.
Arrangements were made in conjunction with the British Red Cross
Society. Group holidays were arranged at holiday camps at Caister
and Isle of Sheppey. On both occasions members of staff escorted
the parties. There are many problems associated with providing
holidays for the severely disabled such as suitable accommodation
and travelling arrangements. Many handicapped persons will only
undertake a holiday if they know that their individual welfare has
been considered and provided for. The co-operation of the officers
of the local divisions of the British Red Cross Society is of