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Incontinence Pads
These pads are supplied to patients free of charge at the request
of either the general practitioner or district nurse in attendance.
With the number of elderly persons increasing and living longer, the
demand has continued to rise. Patients who use these pads are provided
with tarred paper containers. Soiled pads can then be sealed
in these bags and collected for disposal by the refuse collection
service.
Incontinent Laundry Service
In conjunction with a neighbouring authority a collection and
delivery service of draw sheets is arranged, twice weekly, to patients
where the district nurse advises this. It is a growing and much appreciated
service.
DOMESTIC HELP SERVICE
Staff
At 31st December, 1969, the staff consisted of: —
1 Home Help Organiser.
1 Senior Assistant Home Help Organiser.
2 Assistant Home Help Organisers.
3 Clerks.
197 Part-time Home Helps.
5 Neighbourly Helps.
Organisation
Recruitment was less successful than in the previous year, 61
Home Helps were engaged, eight less than in 1968. 72 Home Helps
left the service during the year for various reasons. Advertisements
were put in the press, leaflets were delivered door to door and were also
handed out outside Salisbury's and other supermarkets. The response
was very disappointing.
Talks were given by the Home Help Organiser to Parentcraft
groups at Mitcham, Wimbledon and Morden, to Old People's Welfare
and to the Nurses and Student Health Visitors.
Training Course
The Training Course continued during the year, except between
June and September due to the peak holiday period. The Home
Helps enjoyed the Courses, but a more comprehensive scheme, where
one could judge the practical work would be more beneficial.
Neighbourly Help Scheme
Efforts were made to increase the numbers but there was no
response. There is a lot of competition from industry.
The annual 'get together' for Home Helps was held in the
Vestry Hall in October. This is very popular and proved even more
successful than in previous years.
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