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From these small beginnings progress has been made,
sometimes spasmodically and always under heavy pressure of
work.
The number of registered physically handicapped persons
has increased to 730. All of these persons were visited
diring the year by three Social Welfare Officers with special
knowledge of their problems. Apart from the supply of a great
variety of aids and gadgets, (hydraulic hoists, walking aids,
aids to dressing and toilet, aids for cooking and household
chores etc.) designed to improve the mobility of the handicapped
and assist them to overcome their physical
limitations, the Social Welfare Officers undertook considerable
casework in connection with the problems of the persons they
visited and their families. The problem of human relationships
in such situations are many and often very involved, and much
time is needed in providing the necessary casework support.
In addition, a number of adaptations were carried out in the
homes of the disabled, including ramps, toilet and bath
supports, handrails, installation of ground floor toilets,
bathrooms etc.
In spite of small and inadequate premises, the Occupational
Centre at Fellowship House provided a valuable service to
some 72 physically handicapped persons. There they meet in a
"club" atmosphere and undertake a variety of handicrafts and
so maintain activity and interest. The waiting list for this
Centre is becoming increasingly long and the Council is
taking steps to provide better and increased facilities.
During the year a number of physically handicapped persons
enjoyed holidays arranged by the Authority and this provision
is one which is most highly appreciated and is most beneficial
for these persons.
Turning to the Welfare of the elderly, the Council has
gone ahead with its programme of increased provision of
residential accommodation, Day Centres, holidays, meals
service etc., although much remains to be done.
One new Home, Rose Park, Heathcote Avenue, has been
brought into use and accommodates 60 residents. Another new
Home in Loxford Lane is at an advanced stage of construction
and plans for a third new Home for 50 residents on a site at
Hermon Hill, Wanstead, are being prepared. It is planned to
provide care and attention for some 600 elderly persons in
this type of accommodation. Some thought will have to be
given to the staffing of our Homes, in view of the acute