View report page

59
Many of the problems are not. settled with just one visit or interview,
but often involve much correspondence and enquiries in the follow-up procedure
before a case can be satisfactorily concluded, and excellent cooperation
exists in Tottenham between the Welfare Committee and statutory and
voluntary organisations, who give much time and thought to smooth the path
for the older members of the community.
(1) Parties and outings
Several events were organised during the year.
In addition a number of free Concerts have been provided at the Clubs by
the Ehtertainments Comnittee of the Council.
(m) Voluntary workers
Several helpers have come along and given their time after working-hours
to visit the lonely old people and to date they have made over X)0 visits, also
voluntary ladies help regularly at the Clubs with the Meals Services, act as
Receptionists at the Chiropody Clinics, and also deliver the Meals-on-Wheels.
Without them the existing Services could not run so smoothly, but there is
still room for more helpers. Anyone willing to devote a few hours to this
very worthy cause should get in touch with the Old People's Welfare Organiser
at the Town Hall, Tottenham, who will be pleased to give them further
particulars
National Assistance Act, 19 48, Section 47.
One case was dealt with under this Act as amended by the National Assistance
(Amendment) Act of 1951. This latter Act enables the Medical Officer
of Health to deal with cases quickly in an emergency.
Mrs J.L. was a widow of 81 living alone in a six roomed house in which
every room was crammed full of furniture, papers and other valued rubbish.
The old lady had been known to the department for several months before her
removal to hospital She was an independent individual who was able to go
out and do her own shopping. She slept on the floor in the kitchen and
rarely undressed or washed. She refused all offers of help although she
once relented sufficiently to allow a sanitary inspector to go and start to
remove some rubbish but she soon changed her mind and forebade further
action.
Eventually she became more feeble, although still able to get about, so
it was decided to apply for an order from the Court under Section 47 of the
National Assistance Act, 1948. Before the necessary formalities could be
completed she was found lying on the floor of her scullery by officers of the
department, who were visiting the house. She had evidently tripped and
fallen She was still adamant however in her refusal to go to hospital so
an order for removal under the National Assistance (Amendment) Act, 1951, was