View report page

141
Centres and it is hoped to increase to a five day meals service at all
Centres during 1969.
Although no structural organisation of activities has been introduced,
inter-centre competitions have developed, theatre outings, socials and
dances have been arranged and old time dancing classes at two of the
centres have proved to be extremely successful. The increasing popularity
of such day centres confirms the importance of their role in services
for the elderly within the community.
Transport is still provided for the handicapped elderly who benefit
from day centre attendance and it is hoped that this aspect of day care
can be developed during the coming year.
Holidays for
the Elderly
This Service still continues in popularity despite the fact that for
the first time this year it was deemed financially necessary to request
contributions at the rate of £2.8s.0d. per single person and £3.8s.0d. for
for a married couple. A choice of camps was offered between St. Margaret's
Bay, Dover (in May) and Corton Beach, near Lowestoft (in September).
Despite the cold spell at the beginning of the May holiday, and the
torrential rain during the first weekend at Corton Beach, it was apparent
from the volume of letters of appreciation received that the holidays
were greatly enjoyed. Following last year's success, it was decided to
include some seventy physically handicapped people with the elderly
this year which entailed an increase in the number of escorts to cover
the additional care involved. The fact that many of the escorts have had
experience on previous holidays arranged by the Authority ensured
success in our endeavours to cater for those elderly and handicapped in
the community who otherwise would not have been able to enjoy a
holiday. It is significant of the need that exists that applicants have to
be restricted to one holiday every other year.
Meals on
Wheels
The service has again expanded and there are now approximately
240 people receiving meals up to 4 days a week in the llford part of the
Borough which is operated by paid staff assisted on 3 days per week by
the W.R.V.S. manning one vehicle. In the Wanstead and Woodford part of
borough the service is operated wholly by the W.R.V.S. where approximately
40 persons receive meals. Owing to the financial climate it was
not possible to provide a full five day service as originally intended,
however this is planned to commence during the next financial year.
The Good Companions again paid for the Christmas meal in the
llford part of the borough and members of the office staff delivered