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The Department acts in all matters where medical advice is required. Medical and nursing
staff have visited old people's homes and children's homes, and a Senior Medical Officer has
continued the supervision at the hostel for mentally severely handicapped children.
Applications for installation of telephones are also cleared on medical grounds in doubtful
cases, and 4 were cleared in this way during the year.
NURSERY AND CHILD MINDERS
The Health Department has continued to supervise this service at the request of the Director
of Social Services.
During the year no new Day Nurseries have been registered but two new Play Groups have
been established. At the same time, the number of registered child minders has increased from
272 approved to 330. In all, 1735 children are in regular part time or full time day care in private
Day Nurseries or Play Groups throughout the borough. An additional 568 children are looked
after by Child Minders.
Three applications were received from applicants not considered suitable, who were
persuaded not to proceed with their application for registration.
Courses for Play Group and Day Nursery Staff are available in evening classes provided by
Adult Education. Lectures at these courses were given by Doctors and Nurses as well as staff from
the Education Department. These classes attract an average of thirty students and attendance is
usually very good.

RECUPERATIVE CARE
This Scheme provides holidays for persons who are recovering from illness or operations.
Applications are usually received from General Practitioners on behalf of their patients. In
co-operation with the Director of Social Services medical recommendations are received in the
Health Department and authorised by the Medical Officer of Health for action by the Director
of Social Services. Applicants have to complete an assessment form and accordingly receive a
free service or have to contribute.
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