GENERAL SERVICE

Dominion, Volume 33, Issue 226, 19 June 1940, Page 8

GENERAL SERVICE

New Organization In Christchurch CIVILIANS TO ASSIST AUTHORITIES Dominion Special Service. CHRISTCHURCH, Juno 18. A general service corps has been formed in Christchurch to provide help for the military authorities in a variety of avenues, and to help me Red Cross and hospital authorities as well. Details of the scheme have been worked out by Mr. 11. G. Livingstone, who has secured the assistance of Messrs. \V. F. Tracy and K. W. Robinson in having it carried out. The aims of the corps are set out in a circular, as follows:— - “It is evident that for the duration of the war the military, Red Cross, hospital, and other authorities will require assistance in the way of voluntary help. So far, the offer of assistance has been spontaneous and enthusiastic anil the work done by willing helpers has been outstanding. There •ire however, many who have nor. yet found a place in the scheme of things, and for the purpose of using their services an organization is now being formed, the’ objects of which are as follows: To respond promptly to appeals for voluntary assistance from military, Red Cross, or any other authorities carrying on war work, io assist with transport for sick, and wounded and those who are caring tor “During the 1914-18 war period the Citizens’ Defence Corps was formed, ami was a very valuable aid to the authorities referred to. The organization of a civilian corps to be known as ‘The General Service Corps’ "’ill now enable many not already engaged in war work to assist and shaie in the war effort. Members will, so far as possible, be grouped by professions, trades, etc., and duties will be allotted to suit the convenience of members. The headquarters of the corps will, for the time being, be at No. 153 Hereford Street, adjacent to Tracy and White, solicitors.” All those willing to give their services have been asked to communicate with the headquarters of the new corps. Mr. Livingstone points out that letters have been forwarded to a numof citizens, who have been asked to secure the co-operation of at least 20 others from the same profession or business if possible. Already there are many offers to help. The organization, the formation of which has been approved by those concerned, has already supplied clerical assistance to the Army Department to replace staff absent through illness and at rush periods of registration and medical examinations. A request has been received to make provision for the transportation of sick men and convalescents, and the question has been asked as to whether it will be possible for the corps to supply , cooks to assist temporarily at institutions. It appears that there are many services that can be provided, and an organization such as is being created will serve a very useful purpose as an aid to those who in many cases are already overburdened with work in connexion with the war effort.