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376
"It has become clear to me that the mothers need more advice
and attention at the critical period of about 9 months since the birth
of the child; and I have made arrangements whereby I shall in
future see all the mothers at this period."
Miss Reeve, the Chief Health Visitor, reports as follows:-
"During the year 1,156 infants born in the Borough were
visited; these visits were followed by 1,932 re-visits, making a total
of 3,088 visits paid.
"The Child Welfare Work continues to increase. Not only do
the attendances reach a greater number, but a larger proportion of
mothers come to, and appear greatly to value, the Centre.
"The number of children on the register was 853 (last year's
figure being 566). These made a total number of 6,727 attendances
at the sessions, which are now held on Mondays, Thursdays and
Fridays. (The figure for the previous year was 4,957.)
"In last year's Report a great point was made of the overcrowded
state of the Milton Road Centre, especially on 'Doctor's
Days.' Arrangements were therefore made that a second Centre
should be opened at 233, Albion Road (first floor). This necessitated
dividing the Borough into two districts, each to be served by
one Centre. The division was made by Miss Stamford reserving
her visits and advice for those who live in one area, and Miss Sandeman
taking on those in the second area. Consequently, when the
new Centre was opened, on September 6th, it was only necessary
to send Miss Sandeman and her mothers and children there. In a
word, the new Centre started, to some extent, 'ready-made!'
During its first four weeks 298 children attended the sessions there,
these increasing in the next eight weeks to 382 and 415.
"As a result of the opening of the new Centre it became necessary
to increase the number of voluntary workers and they are
mostly becoming extremely efficient. In this connection our thanks
are due to Mrs. King, Miss C. A. Masters, Misses D. and H. Miller,
Miss Williams and Mrs. Yates.
"During the year 26 still-births and infant deaths (under one
year) were visited, the object being the giving of useful advice.