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Only a small part of Thamesmead had been completed and there was very much a village
atmosphere amongst the residents. The easy relationships that had developed amongst those
working in the health centre were matched by friendly relationships with the community and
with others working there. A St. John Ambulance Brigade began to hold regular first aid classes
each week in the centre and other meetings were also held there from time to time. The new
Lakeside Centre was nearing completion and we are all looking forward to working in more
spacious accommodation with better facilities and the opportunity to expand the services
available.
At this stage the following services were being provided: —
Surgeries every morning and every afternoon except Wednesdays
Child Health Clinic
Developmental Assessment Clinic
Family Planning Clinic
Ante Natal Clinic
Dental services
Slimmers Club
Mothers Group
Audiometry
Deaf Aid Service
Mothercraft and Relaxation Classes
The staff included dentists, doctors, health visitors, district nurse, social workers, dental
auxiliary, receptionists and secretary."
At the beginning of this year a site for a Health Centre within the redevelopment of Erith
Town Centre was made available. Space is unfortunately very limited but 0.543 of an acre
has been allocated. The Health Centre will be connected by a pedestrian route to the Shopping
Centre.
The Health Centre is basically a single storey building with a small first floor extension.
The ground floor contains the Consultation, Examination, Treatment, Dental and Chiropody
rooms; the first floor contains a Common Room for Case Conferences and Professional Meetings,
an office for the Centre Supervisor, one for the Health Visitors and another for a Social Worker.
This Health Centre will provide for three Group Practices (7-8 Practitioners) and facilities
for Child Health Clinics, Health Education, School Dental Service, Chiropody and Family
Planning. In addition, advice will be available from a Social Worker and there will be facilities
for the issuing of Nursing aids and Welfare foods.
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