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12
I feel justified in saying,however, that the time is past
when any Council can look to a Voluntary Body or a combination of
Voluntary Bodies to deal entirely with the problem of the aged even
supported with Local Authority finance. We should recognise,as we
do,the pioneer work of such agencies. Comparison, however, is
justly made with Child Welfare work which starting as a voluntary
effort, proved its case so completely that it called for National
adoption and Local Government administration, the greatest tribute
that can be paid to any voluntary pioneer work. It is the composite
administration of Local Government that is now required.
If we are to see happy and healthy old age our schemes must be
complete and not a question of chance and sporadic effort. As a
Medical Officer of Health of nearly 30 years standing my conscience
would not be clear if I did not state quite clearly my views on a
position which I consider of National importance in the field of
health. None has greater faith in voluntary effort than I have,
but I have served Local Government nearly all my working life and I
know how much it can achieve, how well and completely it could deal
with this problem eertainly in happy co-operation with the work and
inspiration of the voluntary movement.
It is my pleasure once again to thank the members of the
Council and in particular to the Public Health Committee for the
courtesy and help I have received during the year.
Lastly, I would refer to the fact that after being with us
since 1st December, 1952 Dr. Warren has received promotion and will
be leaving us to take up the position of Senior Assistant Medical
Officer to the London County Council. Dr. Warren has shown a keen
understanding of many of the problems of Public Health. I am indebted
to him for most of the information In the opening remarks of this
report, of an excellent survey last year of accidents in the home
and a composite review on the population of Hampstead carefully
extracted from figures of the 1951 census. Each month his value to
me and to the Department has increased and whilst regretting his
departure, I am glad of the promotion which he well deserves.
I have the honour to be,
Mr. Mayor, Ladies and Gentlemen,
Your obedient Servant,
DENNIS GEFFEN,
Medical Officer of Health.