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making comparison is to take the number of beds. This is a known
and stable factor and provides a basis whereby the expenditure of
homes can be measured and compared. Comparing the running cost
of our Municipal Maternity Home on this basis, with others, our
relative position is a very satisfactory one. Before giving the various
tables in connection with the Home, one or two scattered items of
information fall to be mentioned. In the past a number of items have
been reported to the Committee from time to time, such for example
as painting woodwork and walls, whitening ceilings, and so on. It was
decided in July, 1925, to obviate these occasional requisitions for
repairs, furniture, etc., so in future, just before the annual estimates
are prepared, the Sub-Committee will meet at the Home to consider
any repairs or replacements required during the ensuing year. This
policy was followed out in 1925. Ordinary small items, of course,
such as " replenishing of babies' clothing," can be presented at the
usual fortnightly meeting, in the Requisition Book.
As regards the laundry work, while a whole-time employee does
such at the Baths, a woman attends daily for three hours at the Home
to do minor laundry work.
Owing to the increase in the number of cases now admitted to the
Home, an extra nurse had to be engaged in October, 1925. The staff
therefore consists of matron, sister, 4 nurses, cook and 2 housemaids.
The additional nurse occupies a room which was engaged, in Manor
Road, the Home accommodotion being fully taken up.
The maximum annual capacity of the home is 286, and as this
number was being closely approached in 1925, the Committee decided
not to accept any out of the Borough applications. More recently,
however, it was felt that this point should not be rigidly held to, should
the number of local applications admit of the acceptance of outside cases.
Year ended
Rota Doctor's fees
cost of
Specialist's fees
cost of
Fee paid to
King's College
Hospital.
£.s.d.
£.s.d.
£.s.d.
March 1922 — — —
„ 1923 2 2 0 — —
„ 1924 24 3 0 10 10 0 15 8 0
„ 1925 3 3 0 — —
„ 1926 4 4 0 — 11 11 0