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major alterations are required and these range from the construction of a
ramp to the provision of a downstairs shower and toilet. 13 major and
minor adaptations of homes were completed during the year.
The Work Centre for handicapped persons continued to be fully
attended by those who are unable to work in open employment or under
sheltered conditions. There is a waiting list for new members. Here for 3
hours a day, light assembly work is done for 5 days a week and workers
can earn up to £1 19s. 1 Id. per week. Transport is provided by the Borough
and the special coach equipped with a power operated ramp, which was
purchased last year, has given invaluable service. For those unable to
attend the Centre, work is provided at their homes.
With the co-operation of the British Red Cross Society a weekly
handicraft class is held attended on an average by 55 handicapped persons.
Social activities play an important part in the lives of handicapped
persons and, apart from a weekly dancing class and a choral class held
twice a week which are wholly organised by the Borough, grants of
£847 18s. Od. have been made to seven voluntary bodies to provide
social and recreational facilities for handicapped Harrow residents.
However, these generally specialise in a particular form of disability and,
during the year it became apparent that there was a need for a Social Club
to which handicapped persons, whatever their disability, could attend. In
July, the Council approved the formation of such a Club to be held in the
hall generously offered by the Trinity Presbyterian Church. The Club was
named "The Happy Circle" and was an immediate success.
In previous years, holiday arrangements were made for small groups
of 2-6 handicapped people to go to guest houses at different resorts. As
there were many drawbacks to sending small groups, it was felt that
considerable advantage might be gained by sending a large party.
Consequently, 42 handicapped persons accompanied by six helpers were
welcomed at an hotel on the South Coast. I am pleased to be able to
report that the holiday was very successful and that, as anticipated,
companionship proved an outstanding feature. Communal events were
provided and everyone in the hotel was encouraged to join the coach trips,
outings and evening entertainments. This again was much appreciated as
was the excellent food and comfort. A total of 78 handicapped persons
were sent on holiday during the year and various establishments were used,
some catering especially for handicapped persons. I am indebted to the
volunteers who undertook the escort duties and thus enabled handicapped
persons to have a pleasant holiday.