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Maternity and Child Welfare. 59
under five years of age. This scheme came into force on the
1st May, 1918, and is now being operated in accordance with the
provisions laid down by the Ministry of Health in Circular 185,
dated March, 1921.
During the year, 792 families were supplied with milk under
the above scheme:— 158 in Clapham; 76 in Putney, 128 in
Balham; 101 in Streatham; 93 in Tooting; 46 in Southfield;
112 in Fairlight; and 78 in Springfield. The total cost to the
Council was £1,982 15s. 6d.
Women and children in receipt of milk under the Council's
scheme are expected to attend the Welfare Centre during the
time that the milk is being granted, though this rule is not enforced
in cases where there is some very good reason for the
mother's non-attendance.
There is little doubt that many mothers and children have
benefited from the supply of free milk since the scheme was
instituted. In many cases the milk granted has enabled nursing
mothers to prolong the period of lactation, and the records kept
at the Welfare Centres show good results in the health and general
well-being of many infants.
Dental Treatment.
The teeth of mothers and children are examined as a routine
by the Medical Officers at the Welfare Centres, and those requiring
treatment are advised to attend at the Dental Clinic of
the British Dental Hospital, 23, South Side, Clapham Common.
The modified arrangements made with the British Dental
Hospital in 1923, have continued in force throughout the year,
and all expectant and nursing mothers attending the Welfare
Centres are eligible for treatment under the scheme, provided
their financial circumstances are such as to preclude them from
paying the full cost of treatment.
The Council makes a payment to the Hospital of 5s. per
attendance, with an additional charge of 5s. for each case requiring
nitrous oxide. A separate charge is made for dentures