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9
Voluntary pre-school playgroups have continued their valuable contributions
to the day care of Lambeth children, with substantial support from the Council,
which was at the end of the year meeting between 50 and 100 per cent of the net
expenditure of 12 groups, as well as sponsoring the attendance of individual
children at other groups.
Shortage of smokeless fuels became acute towards the end of the year, so
that it unfortunately became necessary to seek suspension of Smoke Control
Orders in respect of a substantial proportion of the premises to which they applied.
Miss M. Le S. Kitchin, principal social worker (health services) retired in
March after nearly 40 years service, most of it with the London County Council.
Her work was initially concerned with the welfare of school-children, but of
recent years, by which time she had attained senior status, her responsibilities
were extended to include social work with "problem" families. Her knowledge
and experience in this field were of great value when, in 1965, the Council set
up the Standing Committee for Co-ordination, and she continued as its Secretary
until her retirement.
I am glad again to have the opportunity to express my gratitude to members
of the Council and particularly to the Chairman and members of the Health and
Protection and Social Services Committee for their help and encouragement
throughout the year. My thanks are also due to the Chief Executive and my
fellow Directors, to Dr. A. B. Stewart, Medical Adviser, Inner London Education
Authority and his staff and to hospital staffs and general practitioners, with
whom the department is in frequent contact.
I have already referred to the changes which will come about in 1971, one
result of which will be the transfer of a considerable number of staff to the new
Directorate of Social Services. I should not wish to let such an occasion pass without
expressing both to those who will be going and those who will remain, my
deep appreciation of their loyalty and hard work during the past six years, without
which the Directorate could not have achieved and maintained its present high
standard of services.
I am,
Mr. Mayor, Ladies & Gentlemen,
Your obedient servant,
A. L. THROWER
Director of Health Services