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there may be a time lag of a week between the application
and commencement of service. Some who
seek the service because of a temporary disability
are fully recovered again before service can be provided.
Helps have to be moved around frequently
and continuity of relationship, which is an important
factor with old persons, is lost. Neighbours and
younger relatives could step into the breach much
more readily than they do.
Another problem frequently brought to me is the
question of whether the old person should apply for
National Assistance. Many who are fully entitled to
it are very reluctant to apply. It may be that an old
lady wishes to apply but her husband objects. Sometimes
children feel that it is a disgrace and offer to
subsidise their parents from their own pockets. This
is very commendable, but for various obvious reasons
it may not be wise, and the offer can cause grave
misgivings in the minds of the old persons. I advise
them to the best of my ability. In the main I encourage
them to see the National Assistance Board
Officer pointing out that his is the expert advice on
this particular subject.
I have enjoyed the contacts with overseas' students
who have been observers here as part of their
training. Mutual exchange of experience has been
helpful to me and I hope to them too, and it is a
pleasant relief to spend some time with younger
persons.
Another enjoyable aspect of the work has been
the privilege of addressing various enthusiastic local
organisations. These addresses took place as follows:-
12th January. Newbury Park Residents Association,
at Newbury Hall.
20th January. Old Age Pensioners' Meeting at
Netley Hall.
29th January. Old Age Pensioners' Meeting at
St. Margaret's Hall.
23rd February. The Over 20's Club, Cranbrook
Park Methodist Church.
24th February. Old Age Pensioners' club, Methodist
Church, Blythswood Road.