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135
Its functions are manifold, but consist principally in (1) assessing
patients as to their ability to pay a contribution towards their maintenance
in Hospital or Sanatorium and collecting of same; (2) care of
family when "bread-winner" is unable to work or is confined to
Hospital; (3) provision of extra nourishment; (4) provision of clothing
for patients before admission to Sanatorium, etc.; (5) assisting
patients returned from Hospital.
This work has been considerably increased during the year, as the
Committee now undertake the care and assessment of Tuberculosis
patients admitted to L.C.C. General Hospitals, in addition to those
admitted to Sanatoria.
Four hundred and seventy-four casew were thus dealt with during
the year, of which number 413 were adults and 63 children. Of this
number, 38 adults and the parents of 23 children were asked to pay
weekly sums varying from 2s. to 2()s. towards their maintenance.
The Committee has no funds; it has to rely entirely on the
assistance afforded by various voluntary societies and gifts of friends.
Lastly, Miss Ashe reports on the valuable work of the Handicraft
Centre, which was commenced in the autumn of 1932. This Centre is
attended by non-infectious Tuberculous patients who are either unfitted
for work or unable to obtain work.
The classes are organised by an Honorary Organiser and instruction
is given in Leather-work, Pewter-work, Lamp-shade making and
many other crafts by a teacher provided by the L.C.C. Thus the Centre
serves the function of providing occupation and interest for many
who otherwise would have to spend many hours in enforced idleness
with nothing more to do than worry over their own sad affliction, a
state of affairs which quickly undoes all the good obtained from
Sanatorium or Hospital treatment.
1 wish to place on record my best thanks to Miss Ashe for the
energy and zeal which she displays in her work, and I would like to
associate myself with her in thanking all those ladies and gentlemen
who give their time to serving on the Committees, and the various
societies for assistance given to our patients during the year.
W. STOTT,
Medical Officer of Health.