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34
Another objection urged against the establishment of creches is based upon
their liability to act as foci in the spread of infectious disease. This objection
refers almost entirely to measles. Everyone admits that wherever young
children congregate, measles is liable to spread among the children. This
danger is met to a very great extent by the care exercised by the matron in
charge of the creche in examining each child on its admission.
The objections to creches can be fairly met, and the difficulties arising in
their management can to a certain extent be obviated. Two or three small
creches are better than one large one. The French, who are the pioneers in
this movement, consider that the ideal creche should be conducted by a private
body and partly supported by the Municipality. This plan ensures personal
interest with proper public supervision and control.
The creche can also be made a centre of educational work and interest.
The Inter-Departmental Committee on Physical Deterioration recommended
the establishment of Municipal creches wherever it was thought desirable, owing
to the employment of married women in factories or for other reasons. Girls
over 14 years of age might" be made to attend occasionally, and the teaching
of infant management to such girls should be eligible for aid from the grant for
public education.
Old Age.
217 deaths were attributed to Old Age. This corresponds to a death-rate
of .69 per 1,000.
65 belonged to the Limehouse District, or at the rate of 1.10 per
1,000.
25 belonged to St. George-in-the-East, or at the rate of .46 per 1,000.
102 belonged to Mile End Old Town, or at the rate of .85 per 1,000.
27 belonged to the Whitechapel District, or at the rate of .33 per
1,000.