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Help for the Housebound

Therapists from the East Surrey Mobile Physiotherapy Unit bring relief to many elderly patients in the comfort of their own homes

Amateur film 1961 11 mins

From the collection of:

Logo for Screen Archive South East

Overview

This well made amateur documentary shows physiotherapists treating elderly patients at home. A doctor, on a home-visit, puts in a request on behalf of his patient, for treatment. Physiotherapists, equipped with small vans, then visit elderly patients and treat them with infra-red lamps, diathermy units and massage. An elderly man is given a walking frame to use while an old lady uses a sling to exercise her arm. The film ends with various ways to raise funds for the service.

This particular film was awarded 3 stars in Amateur Cine World's 'Best 10 Amateur Films of 1962' competition. It is therefore an excellent example of the North Downs Cinematograph Society's output which ranged from local interest films focussing on Redhill and Reigate to short comedies and dramas. Founded in 1928, the society lasted until 1981, after which the members formed the North Downs Film Unit. Frank Brindley Laitwood, who provided this collection, was creatively involved in both organisations.