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6
It is an exercise which confirms the paradox that the less
one knows about a subject, the easier it is to be dogmatic. With
statements or campaigns sponsored by the local health authority,
it is necessary to correlate opposing theories, to be factual
and accurate, and yet not confuse by numerous reservations.
It is a challenge which is being met with a realistic appreciation
of the difficulties.
The Dynamic Community
For 60. years, your Medical Officers of Health have expressed
their thanks to members of the Committee and commended the work
of their staffs. It might be thought that this is a polite
gesture of traditional courtesy. With our minds attuned by the
present planning of services for mental health, comes the
realisation that possibly it is one of the most important
phrases in the whole report. For most individuals need to be
members of a defined community, with ability to comment, to
strive for objectives, and to see that their contributions however
small aggregate to the final achievements. A sense of
purposeful united effort is the essential motive force of the
sustained successful enterprise.
Were I not able to record my thanks for your continued
interest and encouragement, and the unfailing enthusiasm of the
staff, it would constitute a serious warning of major defects.
Fortunately, I can also report active cordial co-operation
with other departments of the Corporation, with local hospital
and executive council services, statutory and voluntary organisations,
and the press.
It seems permissible to suggest that as a community progressing
through the disciplined interplay of integral forces,
Croydon demonstrates the proper functioning of true local
government.
I am,
Yours faithfully,
S.L. WRIGHT,
Medical Officer of Health
and Principal School Medical Officer.