COUNSELLING OFFICER

Press, Volume XCVII, Issue 28700, 25 September 1958, Page 12

COUNSELLING OFFICER

Social SecurityService Questions on new tax legislation, puzzlement at how to fill in forms, advice on personal problems—these are a few of the inquiries the welfare officer of the Social Security Department in Christchurch has to answer each day. Mr A. M. Mackintosh’s position was created by the department last month, and since then he has interviewed about 150 persons who would otherwise have had to hunt round various departments until the right one was found, and then perhaps not get the attention needed. Mr Mackintosh’s office is on the ground floor; he can be seen at any tirpe merely by asking for him at one of the counters.

The one quality common to all his questioners was their vagaries, Mr Mackintosh said. They did not know what forms to fill in where, they were not sure of what department they wanted, sometimes they were even directed to other organisations or local bodies. Tliree-quarters of these he sees are aged. They especially prefer to discuss private matters with Mr Mackintosh rather than with young members of the staff behind the counter. Also it is much easier for them when their forms can be correctly filled in, and all they have to do is sign.

This office is in the special assistance section of the welfare branch, and as the Social Security Department keeps closely in touch with welfare organisations in Christchurch, every assistance can be given to those in need. Nearly every type of hardship comes within the scope of the Social Security Department which is wide in its scope.

Stewart’s Gully Property Sold.—

A four-roomed semi-bungalow on a section of 20 perches, in Pine avenue, Stewart’s Gully, was sold by auction yesterday for £620. The property was offered on behalf of the trustees of the late Alice Morrow. Keen interest was shown in the auction and bidding started at £5OO, increasing in £lO bids until the selling price was reeded.