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88
"It is now widely known that domestic help can be
obtained by sick or infirm persons, provided a medical certificate
is supplied by the applicant and that the need is genuine. The
same help is extended to mothers confined at home, or where
the mother has to be removed to hospital and there are young
children to be cared for. The service has brought great relief
to many physically incapable people, and eased the mental
strain which so often arises when sickness disorganises household
affairs.
"Below is a summary of the year's work:—
DOMESTIC HELP
Brought forward from 1948 38
New cases during 1949 268
Cases completed in 1949 136
No. of cases carried forward to 1950 170
No. of cases extending over three months 187
Analysis :
Acute Chronic Old People T.B. Others Total
(not sick)
66 173 24 24 19 306
HOME HELP
No. of cases completed in 1949 109
"Needless to say, this Service has its own peculiar problems.
It is not always possible to provide all the help that is
desirable immediately it is required. Consideration must be
given to a number of factors, including availability of Helps,
urgent cases taking priority. Where there are relatives in a
position to help they are expected to do so, as the total amount
of help provided during the year must be kept within the
financial limit. Nevertheless, despite some drawbacks, the
Service is now well and truly flourishing. Many lonely people
welcome the Domestic Help, not only because she brings order
to chaos, but because of the cheerful atmosphere she creates
as she hurries from task to task, departing with a cheery :
"See you on so-and-so day." Almost without exception the
Help holds a definite place in the household's affection, and
many grateful patients write to express their appreciation when
the help is no longer necessary.
"In September, 1949, three full-time and two part-time
Helps took a week's course and examination arranged by the
National Institute of Houseworkers. All five candidates were
successful in obtaining the Institute's diploma and badge.