HELP FOR COUNTRY WOMEN

Otago Daily Times, Issue 23352, 18 November 1937, Page 19

HELP FOR COUNTRY WOMEN

Dear Phillida,—Would your readers discuss the possibilities of a scheme to help, perhaps, themselves? We are constantly reminded of the difficulties of women obliged to go to hospital and unable to obtain help for their homes. When the woman returns she finds the house in a mess, washing accumulated, and although unfit, she struggles with work when she ought to be resting. The penalty is sometimes years of ill-health. Here is a suggestion. Are there, particularly in country districts, any women, living, perhaps, alone or with relatives, whose small incomes do not permit subscriptions to charities but who are anxious to do useful social work? Would these women consider giving their names to the matron of their nearest hospital as willing in an emergency to take charge of a home? Some of these hospitals average only one case a week—even less. Most women can rely on their relatives in times of trouble, and some can obtain paid help, but occasionally there is a genuine and serious need of aid. Discussions on the matter with doctors and nurses and with the women themselves make it appear that the very worst time is when the woman goes home. Husband, children, or neighbours can manage while she is away, but she is in serious danger when she returns and “ mother’s back; everything will be all right now.” is the attitude adopted. If each hospital had a list of willing helpers and could call on a woman handy to the case, even in remote corners of the district, no one would need be called on more than once in a year or so. Women willing to act as aids in such cases should most certainly be paid. If not they would be imposed upon. They could make what arrangement they liked with the family—the less formality the better The matron might interview prospective aids, as then she would have an idea of their capabilities and unsuitable persons would not need to be called upon. Aids would require to understand that they must not discuss with outsiders the conditions of the homes they help. A woman may turn a brave face to the world, but her home may show pitiful little economies which must be respected. Obviously the housekeeping bills should not exceed what the mother usually allows. It is a service which older women, especially those who have had children, might give. It would bring in a few shillings occasionally, and be a really worth-while work. As sketched, it need entail joining no society. Simply tell the matron, who could call on the aids for help. It has already been done in one town, and I await with interest news of how it works. It is personal service. It means giving up a week now and then to stay with Mrs Dash and settle 'her in with the new baby or to mind the family while she has her operation. Here is a chance for those older women who feel “not wanted,” but who are quite equal to giving a hand if opportunity offers—as it does here. t Will you talk it over—and see what you can do? Brenda Bell. President. Mid-Otago Federation of Women’s Institutes, Palmerston, Otago. November 15, 1937.