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11
The initial enthusiasm shown by the general public for cervical
cytology has waned and this year the numbers have declined by
36 per cent. This decline has occurred despite the most strenuous
efforts to publicise the value of regular screening of the vulnerable
age groups. A similar decline is noted with regard to routine breast
examinations.
The Directorate has been involved in several important research
surveys. Investigations are being undertaken into the incidence
of certain chromosome anomalies and congenital malformations;
the effect of radiation on the incidence of mongolism; and an
enquiry into the special education needs of the physically handicapped.
In association with Guy's Hospital, the Chief Dental
Officer is using a mobile dental surgery for our physically and
mentally handicapped and this is proving a valuable innovation.
Staff shortages have meant a cutting back on the chiropody service,
and some effort will have to be made at national level to improve
the remuneration of chiropodists working for local authorities.
Two homes (Tegel and Elmgrove) for the elderly were completed
during the year. Both have 60 places, with special care units for
16 very infirm who require a higher degree of nursing and personal
care. Day centres and lunch clubs are incorporated, which will
facilitate Che close identification of the homes with the life of the
local community. The new industrial training centre for mentally
handicapped, which is purpose-built, is now in full operation and
a new lunch club was opened in Calderwood Street as a joint
venture with the Ogilby Housing Association.
A section of the report is devoted to the important subject of
environmental health and the work of the public health inspectors
(although performed in an unobtrusive way) is vital to the wellbeing
of the community.
During the year, we were glad to welcome the Children's Department,
who joined the Directorate and now share the central administration
and other common services. The opportunity can be
taken eventually to re-organise the integrated social work teams
to include child care elements and the free exchange of ideas and
professional experience will be valuable, when that can be accomplished.
The difficulties, however, should not be minimised.
Differences in training and professional attitudes and experiences
will require careful blending but at least a start has been made
during these last two years in the Directorate towards an eventual
generic social work approach.
The Directorate is now therefore poised to make significant
advances in social care, if a period of stability can be achieved.
A planned capital building programme has been accepted, based