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It is of interest to note that the number of calls received on the Health Department Special Enquiry
telephone materially increases following any nation-wide publicity given to venereal disease by such means
as television or radio programmes or a leading article in a national newspaper; and after pop music festivals
in the Home Counties.
RECUPERATIVE HOLIDAYS
On a doctor's recommendation the Health Department arranges for adults who have been suffering from
a recent illness, expectant and nursing mothers with babies or children under 5 years who cannot be left at
home, to receive a recuperative holiday. School children similarly recommended are the responsibility of
the Inner London Education Authority which bears the cost and arranges suitable placement.
The holidays are usually of two weeks duration and the recipients are accommodated in voluntary or
private homes and in ordinary boarding houses. Difficulty is experienced, because of limited suitable
accommodation, in placing some of the more elderly, psychiatric patients and mothers with babies and
very young children. Medical or nursing care is not provided but some of the proprietresses are trained
nurses and medical attention can always be obtained should this prove to be necessary.
The City Council would wish once again to express its appreciation of the help and care given by the
proprietors of the various establishments who accept Westminster residents. These holidays are of immense
value to the recipients giving them relaxation, fresh air, good food and a happy atmosphere. It is of
considerable satisfaction to the Health Department's staff to receive many letters of thanks from the patients
after they have returned home and in some cases a card sent from the holiday resort.
The total number of applications received during 1972 was 276 (278 in 1971) of which 179 (175)
received holidays. The remaining 97 were abortive due largely to the patients not taking up offers made to
them, to appropriate accommodation not being available or to the persons recommended not being
considered suitable or not coming within the scheme.

Of the "other adults" 12 were psychiatric cases, as was the nursing mother.
BLIND OR PARTIALLY SIGHTED PERSONS
Under the provisions of the National Assistance Act 1948 the City Council's Social Services Department
provides services for registered blind and partially sighted persons. On behalf of that department the Health
Department arranges medical examinations as required of such persons in respect of certification under the
Act. During 1972 121 (125) examinations were undertaken of which 31 (37) were in respect of new cases
and 90 (88) were re-examinations of existing patients. In addition, 56 (44) certificates were received from
hospitals and other local authorities.