View report page

61
(d) The Minister recognises the extent and value of the work undertaken
by the Committee of the Sydenham centre but he is
advised that the ward at present in use for the older children
in residence is not entirely suitable or well placed, and he
suggests that the Committee of the centre should be asked to
consider whether alternative accommodation could be arranged.
Tuberculosis.
(a) The number of visits paid by the Tuberculosis Visitors to the
homes of tuberculous patients is much below the average obtaining
in London, and the Minister is advised that to remedy this
defect additional clerical assistance at the Dispensary is required,
in order to set free a portion of the time which it is at present
necessary for the Visitors to spend upon clerical duties.
(b) The Minister notes the very limited use made of X-ray
examinations in the tuberculosis work of the Council, and he
suggests that it should be considered whether this aid to
diagnosis might not with advantage be more freely employed.
Public Cleansing.
(a) The Minister, whilst recognising the good work done by the
Council's Surveyor in the matter of Public Cleansing, is of the
opinion that the entrusting of this work to a special Cleansing
Officer would tend to the greater efficiency of the Council's
cleansing services and leave the Surveyor free to devote himself
to other duties more properly belonging to his sphere of work.
(b) The Council should also consider the extension, as opportunity
arises, of the system of bi-weekly collection of house refuse in
those parts of the Borough which appear specially to require
such provision.
(c) The Minister is advised that the conditions at the Council's
shoot for road-sweepings at Southend Lane, Lower Sydenham,
are not altogether satisfactory and the Council should instruct
their officers to pay special attention to this matter.
The Minister will be glad in due course to learn the result of
the Council's consideration of the observations made above.
In conclusion, I am to express the Minister's appreciation of the
assistance afforded to his officers in the course of the survey.
I am, Sir,
Your obedient Servant,
(Sgd.) DUDLEY WARD.
These observations have had the careful consideration of this
Council, and by their directions, the Minister of Health has been
informed of the results, as follows:—