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were visited and as a direct result many more
volunteers came forward to participate in meeting
an infinite variety of requests for voluntary
services for the elderly and the handicapped.
The Christmas shopping expedition was but one
example of a highly successful co-ordinated
exercise. To all organisations and individuals
associated in any way with this extremely valuable
voluntary effort I can only say 'Thank you'.
Coticlusion
'At the close of the year it was possible to reflect
on positive achievements in the provision of
welfare services, but it was evident that large
areas of need remained and the constant problem
of 'priorities' was ever present.
'However, the staff engaged in all the social
services once again proved that the teamwork
which had been developed between departments
was the council's greatest asset in meeting the
needs of the community. At all levels great efforts
were continued to achieve the co-ordination so
necessary to provide effective services, helped
without doubt by the harmonious relationships
within the Officers' Co-ordinating Committee
(Social Services) and the Chairmen's Liaison
Committee'.
Co-ordination of Social Services
Co-odination 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 Committees 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.
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