Members Newsletter 1964
The following newsletter was distributed to members of the society as a means of informing them of events etc. This particular newsletter compiled in January 1964 details work by volunteers in the out-patients department and offering support for the sterile dressing dept. In addition it also shows that despite a healthy bank balance in the chapel building fund, the agreement of the regional board had still yet to be confirmed.
We are frequently receiving requests for up to date information regarding our activities and hope that the following will prove of interest to all our members and to those who would like to join the league of friends.
Our membership is now around the 1000 mark. This is due entirely to the wonderful work carried out by our area representatives and their collectors in a round the year collection of subscriptions and drive for new members.
In the past year we have received many generous donations from Oakleigh animal products, derived from canteen tea sales and we are most grateful to Mr Jackson and to his staff. We are also most appreciative of the valuable donations received from the ex servicemen’s club, from the proceeds of the car park during Ascot Week.
Our big fundraising effort of 1962 was the bazaar at the Royal Enclosure, which was an outstanding success, showing a profit of £1,152.
Twice a year we hold dances at the hospital, organised by Mr G Butcher. These are extremely popular and well known for the excellent buffet suppers and good dance music. The next one will be February 14th.
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Hospital Gifts & Amenities
And what to do with the money. Working in close contact with the hospital authorities and on Matron’s recommendation, we have been able to provide many amenities. To date these Are:-.
3 Television Sets ( One for the Nurses ).
14 Easy Chairs ( for use in the ward sitting rooms ).
9 Dozen Airflow hot water bottles.
2 Sani Chairs.
2 Invalid Folding Chairs( On loan through the almoner, to patients leaving hospital ).
1 Staff Canteen Trolley.
Our financial position at the moment is that we have £583.2.11d in the general account and £3,558.11.0d. in the chapel funds, which money is invested.
As far as the chapel is concerned we have been steadily building up our fund and pressing for a decision from the regional hospital board regarding the siting of the chapel. This step involves getting in touch with many departments and necessarily takes a long time. We have been advised unofficially that the site is approved and are now only waiting confirmation before preparing the plans which will still have to be passed and dealt with through channels.
In the matter of personal service, at the request of Matron several of our members have formed a group and are making up pre packed sterile dressings. This service was instituted rather in the nature of an experiment as far as one or two of the wards were concerned, but has proved so very helpful to the nursing staff that out members are now providing these dressings for all wards.
Then again, two of our members ( May Ettridge, Alice Pack )are helping in the out-patients department two or three mornings a week.
Occasionally we are told of patients who are without friends or relations near at hand would welcome a visit from a member of the league of friends and we have been very happy to help in this way: in fact we pride ourselves on carrying out the aims of the league in giving practical aid in the form of amenities to the patients and staff and personal service when called upon.
Our annual general meeting will be at Heatherwood hospital on Thursday, June 11th at 8 pm. And we do hope you will make a note of the date and come along and give support.