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(7)
Conditions of overcrowding and of deplorable housing generally
remained throughout the year unsatisfactory and owing to shortage of labour and
materials little progress was made in the reconditioning of property, which has
tended during the war years to become in a poorer general state of repair. A
sample survey of overcrowding conditions was undertaken towards the end of the
year.
The activities of the Maternity and Child Welfare section were
operated, particularly in the second part of the year, at an increasing pressure
on account of the rise in the birth rate.
The Women's League of Service, Cynthia Street, found it necessary to
end their activities during the year after having given continued service in the
Borough for a very long time. Particular mention may be made of the faithful
service rendered by their late visitor, Miss Smith, to the mothers and children
of the Pontonvillo aroa.
During the year the activities of the department were oxtended by the
bringing into operation of a Domestic Help Scheme for assistance to the sick in
their homes. Unfortunately it has been impossible to extend this as frooly as
was wished because of the few persons who were found willing for such omployment
In this connection, particular attention was paid to the aged and a scheme of
visiting by a member of the staff of the department was initiated.
I should like to take this opportunity of thanking the members of the
Council and of the Public Health, Maternity and Child Welfare Committees and the
staff of my department for the cordial welcome which they accorded me on my
return to civilian duties and for the generous support that they gave me in
taking on once again the duties of Modical Officer of Health.
I have the honour to be
Your obedient servant,
C.O.S. BLYTH BROOKE
Medical Officer of Health.