View report page

The follow-up of the newly born after their discharge from
hospital with their mothers cannot be omitted. Experience has shown
that the first and subsequent visits in the early weeks of life of the
baby is regarded as essential in nearly every case. The rising
birth rate naturally brings a higher proportion of this type of visiting.
Another factor which brings many. problems is the constantly
shifting population especially among the immigrants. These people
are anxious to make use of the social services, but for a variety
of reasons they do not acquire a permanent or stable home. They
do not stay long enough in any locality to gain sufficient supportive
guidance which is often necessary. They move on, and another
family with its attendant problems moves in. This means much of
the health visitor's work does not produce the maximum result she
achieves under more stable circumstances.
For the past few years, one health visitor has been allocated
to attend a local group medical practice twice weekly. It was
regretted that, because of shortage of staff, attendance had to be
reduced to once weekly at the latter part of the year. As soon as
the staff position is improved, it is anticipated the previous arrangements
will be reinstated.

Student Health Visitors
The two sponsored student health visitors who completed their
training in July were successful in obtaining the health visitors
certificate. As in previous years students sponsored by other local
authorities have received practical experience and training.
52