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89
Boarding out of Children from Tuberculous Homes.
This scheme was initiated in 1925, and provided for:—
(а) The boarding out of children living in heavily infected and overcrowded homes,
and for
(b) The boarding out of children who were being discharged from Institutions, if
the homes were unsuitable and inimical to the maintenance of health.
At a later date the scheme was further extended to include : —
(c) "Weakly" children, living under conditions likely to subject them to infection,
and children, in suitable instances, whose parents were under treatment for
tuberculosis. Originally the children were sent away for a limited period.
When the scheme was extended it was decided that the children, in all categories,
might be kept away as long as the home conditions were unfavourable.
The arrangements are made by the Invalid Children's Aid Association, on behalf of the
London County Council.
During the year 10 children have been boarded out under the scheme.
Provision of Beds and Bedding for Necessitous Tuberculous Patients.—This valuable step
was initiated by the Borough Council in 1924. Beds and bedding are lent to tuberculous
patients who would otherwise be compelled to share a bed with another or other persons.
They are much appreciated by those to whom they are lent and their use should help to limit
the spread of infection.
The Health Visitors are instructed to make periodical visits and to report on their
condition and the manner in which they are used.
Disinfection of Rooms.—This procedure is always advised on the admission of a case to
Hospital or Sanatorium, on change of residence and after the death of a patient.
It is carried out by the Council's staff free of charge. During the past year disinfection
was carried out in 139 cases.
Home Visits and Inquiries.
This work is performed by two special officers, and the number of visits paid by each
during the year is shewn in the following table:—
Miss Camman 3663
„ Holland 3401
Total 7064
In connection with Tuberculosis, the housing conditions of the family are important.
Any defects discovered on inspection are reported, and special efforts are made to secure more
adequate accommodation if any degree of overcrowding exists.
St. Pancras Tuberculosis Care Committee.
The Care Committee was constituted in February, 1923, as a voluntary committee in
accordance with the wishes of the Ministry of Health, and consists of representatives of various
Social Organisations, the Public Assistance Committee, and ten members of the Borough
Council, working in connection with the Tuberculosis Dispensary Scheme.