View report page

WELFARE OF THE PHYSICALLY HANDICAPPED
THE CHRONICALLY SICK AND DISABLED PERSONS ACT, 1970
The passing of this Act was probably the most important event in 1970 as far as handicapped
persons are concerned.
Not all sections of the Act have yet come into force but Section II which concerns the
provision of social services became effective on 29th August, 1970. Many of the services mentioned
in this section have in fact been provided by the Council for some years under Section 29 of the
National Assistance Act, 1948. There were, however, one or two notable additions, namely:
(i) The provision of wireless and television.
(ii) The provision of telephones and additional special equipment, if required.
(iii) The provision of meals to handicapped persons under 65 years.
A survey was carried out into those cases known to the department to ascertain which people
were most likely to need these additional services.
On 3rd November, 1970 it was reported to the Social Services Committee that the following
categories might be most in need:
(i) Housebound and living alone 151 cases
(ii) Housebound living with others 257 cases
(iii) Housebound living with others but alone all day 120 cases
After giving careful consideration to the matter the Committee resolved that the provision or
assistance in the provision of radio, television or telephones for chronically sick and disabled
persons be approved, subject to the usual financial assessment, but that such provision be restricted
in the first instance to those who are housebound and living alone, or where all members of the
household are housebound.
The Committee also authorised the provision of meals on wheels to chronically sick and
disabled persons under 65 years of age where there is evidence of substantial need providing
arrangements can be made with an appropriate Voluntary Organisation.
By the end of 1970 all known cases were investigated and over 50 persons who were eligible
for the service asked for the installation of a telephone or assistance in the payment of the rental,
and the majority of these will not be required to make any financial contribution. Negotiations
with the Post Office are proceeding.
With regard to the provision of meals on wheels to the under 65's, two of the Voluntary
Organisations concerned have indicated that their services could be extended to include younger
handicapped persons but it is apparent that if this service is to be widely extended the whole
system of the provision of meals on wheels will require reappraisal.
HONEYCROFT HILL WORK CENTRE
This new Centre continues to be well used. The number of handicapped persons attending
the Centre each morning has increased from 40 when it first opened in 1969 to 60 by the end
of 1970.
The Centre is also used regularly for handcraft classes for blind and physically handicapped
persons, and Voluntary Organisations hold regular meetings there.
WELFARE OF THE DEAF
The Welfare Officer for the Deaf continued to give support to deaf persons in the Borough
and the number on the register increased to 88 by the end of 1970.
The Hillingdon Deaf Club which holds its weekly meetings at the Honeycroft Hill Work
Centre continues to be very successful and its membership has increased.
ADAPTATIONS
During 1970 adaptations were carried out in the homes of 53 handicapped persons at a total
cost of £2,488 6s. 7d. of which £1,235 9s. 2d. was recoverable by way of contributions from the
handicapped persons. Included in this amount is £250 which was granted as an interest free
loan and £711 for a major adaptation.
46