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24
It is mentioned that, in certain areas, Day Nurseries have been
provided for the care of young children whose mothers go out to
work, and it is suggested that Councils should consider the desirability
of establishing these institutions.
The Minister states that it is clear that the success of any
efforts to secure adequate supervision of the health of young children
will depend on the efficiency of the Health Visiting staff, and that
in many areas it may be necessary to increase that staff. The
Minister regrets to find that, in some areas, the salaries offered for
these posts are inadequate.
The Council were asked to review their arrangements for supervising
the health of young children, and inform the Minister as soon
as possible of the result of their consideration of this Circular.
As the result of very serious consideration given to this Circular,
and the report of the Medical Officer of Health thereon, the Council
resolved upon the following action to meet the suggestions made by
the Minister of Health : —
To take the necessary steps with a view to the immediate
appointment of one whole-time Health Visitor.
To appoint three additional Health Visitors early in the next
financial year.
To establish " toddlers' clinics" at the Downham Centre, the
new Central Clinic, Lewisham, and at the proposed new clinic in the
Brockley district.
To make arrangements with the South Eastern Hospital for
Children, Sydenham, and at St. John's Hospital, Lewisham, for
the provision for the pre-school child of orthopædic treatment,
operative treatment for tonsils or adenoids, or both, dental treatment,
treatment of diseases and defects of the eyes, and other minor
defects.
To make arrangements with the London County Council for the
treatment of minor ailments of children not requiring hospital
treatment.
To make arrangements for the appointment of part-time
medical officers or a part-time medical officer on a sessional basis