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69
Instruction in Nutrition and Cookery Classes.—The lecture demonstrations
on cookery held at the maternity and child welfare centres,
inaugurated in 1936, have been continued throughout the year. A limited
number of about twelve mothers are enrolled for each short course of
demonstrations. These demonstrations aim at giving the young mothers
not only some insight into the art of cookery, but also some knowledge of
economical purchasing, so that the fullest use can be made of a small
sum of money, in providing a meal which is attractive and is also suitable
from the point of view of modern dietetic theory. The classes have been
very successful and have proved both interesting and profitable to the
mothers.
Mrs. Latey, a fully qualified teacher, holding a diploma in domestic
science, attends at Ebury Bridge and Bessborough Street to hold cookery
classes. At the Westminster Health Society similar classes are held by
Mrs Macmillan. The mothers having received instruction actually take
part in cooking various dishes at the classes.
Barlow's Gift.—The special committee administering this trust has
again made the annual allocation between maternity and child welfare,
the tuberculosis handicrafts Committee and the Westminster, Belgravia
and Pimlico Association for Women's Welfare.
The total annual income amounts to £37 5s. 4d., and so far as maternity
and child welfare is concerned the share is spent on necessary articles which
cannot properly be provided by the rates. As regards the handicraft
class it is used for providing materials.
Homes for Unmarried Mothers, etc.—The Council made a grant
of £100 to the Home of St. John the Baptist at Tulse Hill. This
home was formerly in the City, and cases from Westminster are eligible
for admission, the minimum period of residence being eight months.
During 1937 five Westminster women were admitted to the home.
This home serves a most useful purpose. The women generally admitted
on the recommendation of the Westminster rescue worker are maintained
for at least three months before confinement and are retained from 9 to 12
months after. During this period they are trained for domestic or other
useful occupation, arrangements being made for the future employment
of the woman and the welfare of her child.
Supply of Milk.—Fresh or dried milk is supplied free or at half-price
in certain cases recommended by the medical officers of the maternity and
child-welfare centres. Grants are made only in cases where the income of
the family, after deductions have been made in respect of rent and other
outgoings, is within the limits laid down in the Council's scale of income.