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ment classes and weekly group discussions were taken by the consultant psychiatrist.
Films were shown and occupational classes provided by tutors from the Richmond Adult
College.
Many fit, elderly people live happily in the Borough, either with their spouse, or
with some younger relation. Some live on their own, only calling upon the services of
their family doctor when need arises. Unfortunately, others, and especially those living
alone, may come to our notice only when there is a crisis, e.g. because of ill health,
impoverished circumstances or danger of hypothermia. Then heroic measures are called
for from all available services to enable such persons to live satisfactorily in the community.
Close liaison is necessary between the Health Department and the Department
of Social Services as well as co-operation with the various voluntary associations which
exist to help the elderly. In this regard I am happy to report that there have been
discussions both at professional level and on an informal basis throughout the Borough
to ensure that all those concerned with helping the elderly keep in close touch.
My thanks are due to Dr. Josephine Finn and Dr. Phyllis DNetto, consultant
geriatricians at Kingston Hospital, and Dr. J. Andrews, consultant physician to the
geriatric service, South West Middlesex Group, West Middlesex Hospital, for their
co-operation during the year.
During 1971 it was not considered appropriate to admit anyone to hospital under
Section 47 of the National Assistance Act, 1948.
ACCIDENTAL HYPOTHERMIA.
Emergency accidental Hypothermia Kits are made available on a 24-hour basis for
use by medical and nursing staff. These kits consist of sleeping bags, blankets, hotwater
bottles, low reading thermometers, convector type heaters, matches, change for electricity
and gas meters and hand lanterns. The kits are normally maintained in the Nursing Store,
Waidegrave Road, Teddington.
Mothers attending clinics are continually reminded by poster and pamphlet of the
dangers of hypothermia in infancy. All nursing staff are provided with low reading
thermometers.
CHIROPODY SERVICE.
Details of the chiropody scheme at present operating within the Borough are as
follows: —
Method of Provision
(a) Treatment at the surgeries of private chiropodists.
(b) Treatment at Borough Council clinics. *
(c) Treatment at sessions arranged by Voluntary Societies. *
(d) Domiciliary treatments.
* Treatments ceased to be arranged by Voluntary Societies in February,
1971 and were discontinued in Council Clinics from September, 1971.

The charges detailed above became operative from 1st June, 1971.
Marginal hardship cases can receive special consideration within
the assessment scales.
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