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It will be noted that in almost all respects the numbers increased in
1946 over 1945 and in fact the number of new cases was almost the highest
experienced locally. On the other hand, while there was a slight increase in
the total attendance, this total was far below that of the peak year in
1938. In part this may be accounted for by the change of habits on the
part of mothers following their disturbance during the war, but the more
important reason is that at five of the centres one session each month is
devoted primarily to toddlers and the attendance of babies is discouraged.
In so far as the average attendance per session has been reduced this
is all to the good, as overcrowding is diminished and better work can be
done by the staff.
The reduction in the number of cases referred to hospital compared
with 1938 (and especially with the war-time peak in 1941-2 when the
District was most short of private Doctors) is satisfactory as suggesting
that the real purpose of the centres is being appreciated, i.e. the observation
of the development of the apparently healthy child together with
the tendering of advice on how to keep it healthy. The centres are not
intended for the treatment of those who are ill; these are encouraged to
obtain treatment when necessary through their private Doctors.
The Council continued to receive assistance from voluntary helpers
at all centres and their steady and unspectacular help continues to be
appreciated, as the Health Visitors are thereby enabled to concentrate
on giving personal professional advice which, when coupled with that of
the Doctors, constitutes the essence of the Service.
Toddlers' Clinics.
Since 1939 the Council has devoted regular monthly sessions at five
of the infant welfare centres to supervising the health of children over
two years of age ; previously these attended but were apt to be overlooked
on account of the attention claimed by the newly born babies.

The improved figures for 1946 are very welcome as suggesting an
increased appreciation of the benefits of this service. This age group has
also received increased attention in the Nurseries and Nursery Schools,
where the majority are over 2 years of age and receive frequent medical
inspections.
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