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Every case on returning from the Sanatorium is visited by the
Secretary who ascertains his future plans as regards employment. In
some cases the former employers have been approached as to reemployment
of patients, whilst others have been referred to the Red
Cross for assistance in commencing out-door work, such as crockery
stalls ; still the employment of ex-patients is without doubt somewhat
of a difficulty.
In the case of women ex-patients, many are willing to become
domestic servants, but many employers are unwilling to have exSanatoria
patients in their homes. It has been suggested that positions
for women who are able and suitable might be found in Sanatoria and
Hospitals, and that two ex-patients possibly should do the work of one
ward maid. The question of accommodation has been brought forward
as a drawback, but it is hoped that something may yet be done in this
direction. Where returned patients are dressmakers, they are advised
to carry on their occupations in their own homes, provided plenty of
fresh air is possible ; failing this, the Care Committee endeavour to
place those patients in suitable posts, near home where possible.
In co-operation with the Charity Organisation Society, ex-patients
with limb deformities are trained for suitable employment, e.g., fine
needlework.
To Sum up the Secretary's Duties.
She visits all cases before and after treatment in Sanatoria, and
if necessary she visits the family during the patient's absence. She
completes and forwards to the London County Council reports on
environmental conditions.
Home enquiry forms are submitted to the Care Committee for
assessment of contributions and are then sent to the County Council.
She collects and sends to the London County Council all contributions
for Hospital or Sanatorium treatment. Should patient's circumstances
alter, she reports this to the Care Committee so that an alteration may
be made in the assessment for recommendation to the London County
Council. She co-operates with charitable and other bodies with a view
to assisting patients and their families pro re nata. She endeavours to
find suitable occupations for patients, or for the patient's wife while he
is in a Sanatorium, if circumstances render this course desirable.
In cases where extra beds and bedding are required, she gets in
touch with the Charity Organisation Society or the Red Cross.