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total for 1938 (61) is strictly comparable. Certain minor alterations
were made in the appropriate scale during the year, but the operation
of the scheme has remained more or less unaltered. I think that
it can now be definitely stated that the Home Help scheme has
filled a very definite gap in the maternity services, and that the
assistance so provided is not only keenly appreciated, but extremely
valuable from a preventive point of view.
Voluntary Helpers.—It is once again a privilege to record
my official thanks to the Voluntary Workers for the many and
excellent services which they rendered throughout the year. Space
does not permit of an elaboration of these services, but as Medical
Officer of Health I should like the Voluntary Helpers to know that
the part they have voluntarily chosen to play in the maternity
work of the district is in many respects unique and invaluable.
General.—The scheme mentioned in the Annual Reports for
the past two years of an ad hoc maternity clinic, with or without
the addition of a Day Nursery, has not yet materialised, but one
important step has been taken. Arrangements have now been
entered into with the Middlesex County Council, whereby the
Maternity Department can have the part use of the combined School
and Maternity and Child Welfare Clinic which the County Council
is erecting in Bowes Road. These premises have been constructed
to meet the Maternity Department's requirements, and, when they
are finally completed, should provide a modern and adequate
Maternity Centre. As the Council will be aware, it is proposed
to transfer the New Southgate Clinic from the Grove Road Baptist
Church Hall to these premises, so soon as they are ready for tenancy.
With such admirable accommodation available, it should be possible
in the future to increase the scope of this clinic, by incorporating
certain additional special sessions to meet the growing needs of
maternity and child welfare in Southgate.
The question of the erection of a Day Nursery is more complex,
and requires very careful consideration. Evidence that such an
institution is required in Southgate is still somewhat conflicting,
and until the need is definitely established it would obviously be
unwise to embark upon any elaborate financial scheme. An alternative
is at present being explored whereby special cases may be
dealt with on a domiciliary basis. As, however, this scheme has
not yet been put into operation, no more detailed report is possible
at the moment.
Maternity and Child Welfare in Southgate has now passed its
infancy and childhood, and is growing steadily into healthy,
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