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that the Laundry is used to a larger extent than ever by the
class for whom such establishments were primarily intended,
that is, those of the working population who do not possess
conveniences for washing in their own homes.
With a view to inculcate and encourage habits of personal cleanliness,
the Commissioners have resolved to admit children
attending the Pulteney Board School, at reduced rates, to the
Baths. They are prepared to favourably consider applications
for a reduction in the price of admission from the Managers
of other Schools and Institutions, it being understood that
bathers admitted at reduced rates are limited to days when
the establishment is not used to the fullest extent by the
general public. The Commissioners are persuaded that both
the Baths and Wash-houses have proved a potent factor in the
amelioration of the social condition of the labouring poor of
the neighbourhood, and they invite those who are specially
brought into contact with the poorer classes to encourage the
use of the establishment by such as have no proper conveniences
at home. It may be mentioned that a private
warm bath, supplied with clean water for each bather, and
the use of a clean towel, can be had for 2d., and that the
inclusive price of a washing trough, supplied with steam,
hot and cold water, wringing machine, drying horse heated
by steam, irons and mangle, is 2d. per hour. The mere
economy resulting from the use of the Laundry on such
terms must be considerable, while the comfort arising from
the abolition of "washing day" in a home of one or two
rooms cannot be stated in money value.
A comparison of the figures given in the following summary
of the lleceipts and Expenditure for the past three
years will show the present satisfactory financial condition of
the Establishment.
The loan which was borrowed for the
erection of the building will be entirely liquidated two years
hence, consequently, contingencies apart, it may reasonably
be anticipated that the Baths will not require any further
aid from the rates:—