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HEALTH EDUCATION SERVICE
"Nemo Mortalium Omnibus Horis Sapit"
(No man is at ail times wise.)
This very old proverb with a world of meaning could very well describe the reason for health
education in all its forms. If man were wise enough to understand the implications of those of his actions
which result in harm to himself, he would perhaps not need help through health education. Man, however,
is frequently wise only after the event and it is in this context that health education can perhaps prevent
the increases in lung cancer, venereal disease, abortion, obesity to name but a few of the modern hazards
to health which he should be able to avoid if his capabilities are used wisely.
The activities of the health education section are outlined below but it is important to remember
that health education involves the staff of the entire department including medical officers, nursing staff
and public health inspectors.
ACCOMMODATION
It was felt that centralisation of the various sections would help to improve the smooth running of
the service and increase the facilities available.
Adaptations to accommodation at 159/167 Upper Street have enabled the service to be accommodated
in self-contained premises which now comprise:-
Health Education Centre and Conference Room
In-service training of professional field staff in the method and content of health education is
carried out here and displays of new health education visual aids are presented on a regular basis.
The centre, which provides for a permanent exhibition, cinema and lecture/conference room, has
become the focus of health education activity in the department and many members of the professional
field staff are making use of the new centralised facilities available to them for the purpose of seminars,
meetings and previewing of new aids and materials relevant to their work. Visitors from other countries
and local authorities and others wishing to learn more about health education practice can now, upon
request, receive formal tuition in suitable surroundings.
Drawing Office, Workshops and Storage
A drawing office has been provided where art work is done for the many designs required in the
creation of original exhibits. There are also two workshops where silk screen printing, plastic cutting,
woodworking, display construction, painting and electrical work are carried out. A high standard of workmanship
and technical expertise is maintained in this work.
Offices
Two offices have been allocated for general administration.
STAFFING
The staff of the health education service now comprises the health education officer, 2 assistant
health education officers, 1 health education assistant, 1 technical assistant and 1 clerical assistant.
Assistant Health Education Officer
The department was fortunate to be able to appoint to this additional post a qualified health visitor
who has the further education teacher's certificate. She immediately paid attention to those subjects for
which health education is vitally necessary in girls' schools - sex education, menstruation, venereal disease
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