View report page

registered at the end of 1966 was 1,006. The
actual number of new registrations was
considerably higher than the difference between
these two figures and it is probably in this field
that the greatest volume of work was undertaken
by the department. The total number of aids in
issue exceed one thousand. Holidays were
arranged for 110 persons, almost 100 per cent
increase on the number provided in 1965.
The Deaf and Hard of Hearing
The services of a qualified senior welfare officer
able to deal with the many problems of people
who are deaf or hard of hearing became available
during the year and his first task was to prepare
an accurate register of the sufferers from this
affliction.
Homeless Families
During the year one of the two hostels formerly
used to provide temporary accommodation was
closed. The welfare committee decided to improve
the standard in the remaining hostel and the
borough council towards the end of the year
were recommended to adopt a completely new
policy by assistance to families in distress. The
results of that policy will be apparent in future
reports.
Meals on Wheels
During the year the average number of meals
supplied weekly increased by 80 but the welfare
committee were very conscious of the fact that it
was not immediately possible to overcome supply
difficulties and that delivery was restricted to five
days per week.
Transport
The overall needs of the department in providing
facilities for blind and handicapped persons to
attend classes and social functions, together with
the daily requirements to transport elderly people
to and from day care and also the growth of the
meals service justified the acquisition of additional
vehicles. Even so, demand by all handicapped
groups in the community far exceed the
total availability of suitable transport and it was
thus still necessary to call upon volunteers from
time to time and to utilise hired transport.
Voluntary Effort
1966 was a year of sustained voluntary effort and
one cannot speak too highly of the tremendous
part played by societies, committees, organisations,
and individuals in the total welfare effort in
in the community.
Conclusion
1966 ended with a better prospect in view—a new
home, another day centre, a possible work centre,
additional transport, and a holiday home. Much
remained to be provided but a real start had been
made to meet some of the needs apparent at the
end of 1965.
The sentiments expressed last year on coordination
of effort may be re-echoed. Staffs in
all the facets of social services provided by the
London Borough of Hounslow know they are
part of a council team, know that each supports
the other and realise that only in this way can the
total need be satisfied.
Co-ordination of Social Services
Co-ordination between the Children's, Health,
Housing and Welfare departments continued
successfully throughout the year and there was a
good relationship with the many voluntary
organisations working in the borough.
General policy matters affecting the social
services were discussed at the Chairmen and
Officers' Co-ordinating Committee and there has
been a co-ordinated approach to matters which
affect the various departments.
The findings and recommendations of the
Seebohm Committee are awaited with interest.
93