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19
[1931
78 mothers and 85 children were sent for convalescence to Flamstead, being 10
more mothers and 11 more children than that in the previous year, and in addition
9 mothers and 65 children were sent to the seaside, while 16 children were enabled
to obtain convalescence elsewhere.
East Centre.—The medical report of the East Centre states that there has been
a diminution in the number of cases of rickets and marasmus and other diseases of
malnutrition among those attending and the Centre realises the importance of
keeping in touch with the toddler until school age is reached. Special mention is
made of the importance of breast-feeding and the test-feeding carried out at the
Centre to enable the best advice to be given to mothers. The attendance of the
mothers is good and they make considerable efforts, in the great majority of cases,
to carry out the advice and instruction given.
In the autumn Dr. Evelyn Lucas, from the Child Guidance Clinic, gave lectures
on the following:—"The Jealous Child," "The Nervous Child," "Disobedience,"
and " Promises." In addition, the Milk Publicity Council gave a lecture
on " Food Values " and two cooking demonstrations.
The provision of material for research in the special investigation of the Board
of Education in regard to Tonsils and Adenoids was continued.
Special funds were raised to deal with the acute poverty which was so much
in evidence in the winter months, and a number of the poorest cases were relieved.
At this Centre early symptoms of squint have been sent for special treatment
to Ophthalmic Hospitals, so that every effort may be made to avoid development,
and thus obviate the necessity for glasses or after treatment of the established
disability.
West Centre.—
The medical report of this Centre draws attention to the depressed state of
industry and industrial conditions generally with the consequent hardship.
The number of babies treated in the Ward was 82, one more than last year.
There were two cases which ended fatally as against 4 in the previous year.
The total number of attendances has increased.
The " Light " Clinic was continued during the year.