View report page

7
metallic residues in former sewage farm land occasioned much enquiry. No
evidence of ill effects was obtained from blood examinations of individuals
who had worked at and cultivated allotments on the site, nor dia samples of
their edible crops give figures for lead in excess of recommended international
limits. Nevertheless with soil samples showing over 6,000 parts
per million of lead, it was thought prudent to recommend only developments
which covered the site entirely by buildings, paving or Corporation mainrained
grassed areas.
Health Services Co-ordination
The advent of the Social Services Department increased this problem
but the new Director was already known to the hospital and family doctor
services and made personal efforts to enhance the existing co-operation.
The combined hospital and Local Authority mental social work team was
maintained despite many staffing changes inevitable with re-structuring. If
the proposed area health board coincides with the London Borough, it seems
likely that the divisive effects of the Social Services Act will be overcome
in Croydon.
Impending Changes
Hopes that 1971 would reveal the new health service structure were not
realised with resulting discouragement to staff retention and recruitment.
Nevertheless all services were fully maintained and further developed and
my thanks are due for the sustained efforts of members of the department.
Finally I express appreciation for the unabated interest, support and
encouragement of the Chairman and members of the Committee.
I am
Yours faithfully,
S.L. WRIGHT,
Medical Officer of Health
and Principal School Medical Officer.