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77
course include the elderly who are registered for other reasons, such as
physically handicapped and blind. It has been difficult for the social
workers to absorb the increased case load but every effort was made to
ensure that all new referrals were investigated and services provided as
necessary.
As in previous years a holiday was arranged for 70 elderly persons at
Cliftonville. Voluntary helpers accompanied the party and the success of
the holiday is largely due to their efforts.
The 3 work rooms for the elderly are very popular and fully attended.
There is a need to expand this service and the development programme
includes the provision of an additional purpose built centre and more
vehicles.
Suitable housing is a problem facing many elderly and handicapped
persons. During the period under review 86 cases were investigated by
social workers and with the co-operation of the Housing Manager many
were re-housed in more suitable accommodation and the applications of
others received the priority necessary to their needs.
Protection of Moveable Property
The Council is responsible under the National Assistance Act 1948
for the safeguarding of the personal property of persons admitted to
hospital or residential homes. During the period under review no action
was required under this section.
Welfare Services for the Blind and Partially Sighted
For the blind and partially sighted it was a year devoid of anything
spectacular. The clubs and handcraft classes continued to be well attended
and the high standard of craftmanship was maintained. The wide range
of articles they made, were exhibited at the annual sale of work which was
very well attended and financially very successful.
By request a Braille and typing class was started which has proved to
be worthwhile.
Once again a group holiday was arranged and, 64 blind persons were
able to participate. Assisted holidays were also arranged for 26 persons.
Horticulture is a favourite pastime for many blind persons and many
become quite proficient gardeners. To encourage this activity classes were
once more held at Norwood Hall and transport was arranged for a group
of Blind persons from Harrow to attend the course. Classes for the Deaf
Blind, were continued with success, and the Harrow Blind Social Club
which is self supporting and organized by its own members provides a
very wide and interesting social programme. The Borough organises a
weekly dancing class which is very popular and the Harrow Blind Club
promotes dances during the year which are always well attended and
illustrate the high degree of independence and mobility of blind people.