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30
A scheme for the production of time sheets and work programmes was
developed by Management Service Officers. An experimental pilot project
was put into operation in one area during the year. The process involved
photographic reproduction and was designed to reduce the clerical time
spent in rewriting weekly work programmes.
The future of the Home Help Service will inevitably be based on a
broader spectrum following complete integration with other services.
Progress might inevitably change the appearance but the spirit of service
will form the sure foundation on which all subsequent development can be
built safely.
In this my final report to the Medical Officer of Health I would like to
express my appreciation to him and to my colleagues at all levels whoshould
share the credits I was given when I left the service.
For detailed figures see Appendix page 122.
HEALTH EDUCATION AND HOME SAFETY
Miss D.S. Elliott, S.R.N., H.V. Cert., Dip. H.E.
Principal Health Education Officer
Staff working in health and education services still face enormous
problems in making health education effective. Enthusiasm was never more
necessary, nor the need to experiment with different groups, methods and
materials without being hampered by rigid patterns of thought and professional
prerogatives.
Parent Education
(a) Parentcraft
Classes for expectant parents improved in both quality and quantity
and generally the teamwork approach by health visitor, midwife and
physiotherapist is working well. "Fathers" sessions are included in all
courses and are often supported by Health Education staff particularly
where the health visitor is new to teaching. A specially qualified Health
Education Officer also trains small groups of health staff in methods and
techniques of teaching about family planning, now an important item in
each course.
(b) Toddlers' Clubs - Mothers' Discussion Groups
Unfortunately frequent staff changes, a shortage of voluntary help and
sometimes difficult premises reduced the groups to eight. The necessity
for full involvement of parents in understanding the basic psychological,
physical and educational needs of their children and themselves becomes
more and more apparent to those dealing with problems at school and work.
Maladjustment, smoking, drug-taking, venereal disease, overweight and
dental disease are symptoms of insufficient involvement.