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Visitor. During 1946 the work expanded very considerably and the
number employed varied from 14 to 26. In 1947 the average number
employed was about 28, with a maximum of 31 or 32.
The number of cases assisted increased from 31 maternity cases in
1938 to totals of 142 in 1945, 268 in 1946 and 414 in 1947. The latter
represents 215 maternity and 199 other cases who were helped owing to
sickness in the family, or old age, the latter being unable otherwise to
cope with their domestic affairs. It was only practicable to aid the
majority for a period of two to three weeks, but in exceptional circumstances
the period was extended, occasionally very considerably.
A sliding scale has been devised which assists those in poorer financial
circumstances, and a quite generous attempt has been made to
extend modified benefits over a wide range of incomes.
It was regretted that all legitimate appeals for assistance could not
be met owing to the limited number of Home Helps employed. The
Organiser, however, again did extremely well in spreading the available
assistance over the maximum number of cases, in holding together so
many assistants, whose conditions of service often vary considerably
and are not always by any means easy or pleasant, and particularly in
inculcating a real sense of service. While her assistants tend to come
and go, she has succeeded in building up a good organisation, with its
own quite high standard and tradition.
Towards the end of the year further limited expansion became practicable
and is tentatively being explored. Uncertainty regarding the
effect of the National Health Service Act limited the progress which
might otherwise have been achieved, coupled with doubt as to the financial
responsibility which should be accepted by the community.
Obstetric Specialists.
During 1947 the number of Obstetric Specialists recognised under
the Council's scheme, upon whom local doctors could call for assistance
in relation to anticipated or realised obstetrical difficulties, was increased
to six. Altogether 17 local residents were seen by one or other of the
specialists, and in 6 cases minor or major operations were performed.
The Council has made no attempt to recover the fees of the specialists
from those benefiting by the service since 1938.
Emergency Unit.
In 1938 an arrangement was made, thanks to the generosity of the
County Borough of Croydon, whereby an Emergency Unit or " Flying
Squad," based on Mayday Hospital, Croydon, was made available to
residents in this District, but fortunately its services have not been
required during the last two years.
Care of Premature Babies.
During 1944 additional arrangements were made to provide for the
peculiar needs of premature babies, including the appointment of a
Consultant Paediatrician, but his services have not been called upon
during the last two years. The special cots, with electric blankets, etc.,
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