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Similarly the total attendances increased by 2,144 to
12,328. These increases were equally distributed over all the
Centres with the exception of Kenley where a slight reduction
occurred. The total number of attendances is still well below
that of 17,038 in 1938.
The number of consultations with the Doctors was almost
the same as in the previous year.
Of the children attending, 59 cases were referred to
Hospital for minor operations and other treatment, compared with
68 last year and 41 in 1938.
TODDLERS' CLINICS.
The year under review was the third complete year in
which special toddlers' sessions were held, at which the Doctors
confined their attention to children from 2-5 years of age.
While the number of sessions held was 41, this being 5 less
than in 1941, the total number of primary examinations of toddlers
increased by 34 to 198 and re-examinations increased by 21 to
26l. These figures are, however, slightly less than in 1940.
DISTRIBUTION OF MILK. ETC.
The introduction of the Government Scheme for providing
milk at reduced cost for children under 5 years of age and antenatal
and nursing mothers has involved the distribution of less
milk by the Council, but the Health Visitors and Doctors have had
a considerable amount of work to do in completing the forms
required for this and other purposes by the Government.
The Government issue of milk, fruit juices and oil
continued to be undertaken by representatives of the Food
Officer, special assistants being employed on this work at all
Child Welfare Centres and at the Central Food Office.
DENTAL TREATMENT.
The Scheme for the dental treatment of ante-natal and
nursing mothers and children under 5 years of age, which was
launched in 1934, was continued with its usual efficiency and
popularity.
During the year 100 cases were treated compared with 85
and 67 in the preceding two years and 90 in 1938.
DAY NURSERIES.
The Council continued to contribute generously during
the year to the two Voluntary Day Nurseries which have been
established in the District for a number of years.
In addition the year 1942 was a landmark in that the
first Wartime Nursery at Pampisford Road, Purley, was opened on
the 7th April, providing accommodation for approximately 45
children. This accommodation was quickly taken up by the
residents in the district, some children being brought daily by
ambulance from Selsdon.
The Council therefore gave consideration to the
establishment of further Wartime Nurseries and plans were
approved for the establishment of two new Nurseries. one at
Grange Park, Old Coulsdon, and one at Queenhill Road/Byron Road,
Selsdon, both since opened, with accommodation in each for
57 children.
CHILD LIFE PROTECTION.
During the year 25 Foster Mothers were under supervision,
41 children being distributed among them. This represented
9 more Foster Mothers and 13 more children than in 1941.