| Description | Tracks 1 - 14
This is a continuation of Charles Parker's interview with Geraldine Woodhouse and John Shaw at the Resource Centre based at Benson Primary School. Track 5 notes financial and administrative tensions between the head teacher and users of the resource centre.
The main thrust of these recordings is the need to improve the condition of families in the Boulton West housing clearance area. Geraldine identifies the inefficiency of social workers representing individuals or single families with the Housing Department or other public agencies when what is needed is a concerted effort to address issues affecting all residents. (Tracks 1 - 2). Local Social Services advice centres are referred to (Tracks 2 - 3) and criticisms are recorded of care homes for children and elderly people. A call is made for more emphasis on foster care and sheltered accommodation (Tracks 3 -4).
Tracks 6 - 12 relate to community activities within the local area. A representative from the Boulton West Action Group joins the interview, which considers the background and activities of the Action Group. Poor housing conditions endured by residents and poor service received from private landlords and the Council's Housing Department are considered. The support of the Saint James Advice Centre, Handsworth Law Centre and Social Services (Area 2) are recognised (Tracks 6 - 7 & 11). An assessment of the capability of local councillors to act on behalf of residents is given (Track 9). Reference is made to the success of RATS (Residents Against Tank Storage) combatting plans to install tar storage facilities in the area (Track 10).
Total: 44:40 minutes
Dubber's reference number: PLA1of2 KF534B0216880 |