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54
12 of the above worked at their trades within a few days of their confinement,
29 more within a week, 47 from one to two weeks, 36 from two to four weeks, 31 from
one to three months of their confinement.

109 premises in various parts of the Borough were visited at the request of the
Almoners of the London Hospital, and a report sent as to the home conditions.
57 premises were referred to the Sanitary Inspectors, and the conditions were
reported to the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children in three
instances.
40 newly-confined mothers were recommended for extra nourishment to the
Stepney Invalid Kitchen, and granted in every case.
2,171 re-visits were made by the Health Visitor.
The Health Visitor reported that the employment of the mothers sometimes
led to the neglect of the infants, especially where the livelihood depended upon the
woman's efforts. Work had to be finished and returned to the employer's premises
before the next meal could be provided.
98 of the infants were first-born children ; the mothers were more anxious to
learn, and appreciated the Health Visitor's visits and instruction, than the mothers
who had several children.
It was found that very little is known by the mothers of the nutritive value of
different articles of food. Tea, bread soaked in tea, vegetables, etc., were frequently
given to infants under one year of age.
Breast feeding was generally carried out for the first three or four months,
afterwards it was supplemented by some form of artificial food, boiled bread, oatmeal,
cornflour being most favoured by the mothers. Machine-skimmed milk was largely
used on account of its cheapness.
On the whole, the Health Visitor considers that the conditions are improving,
many of the mothers appreciate her efforts and carry out the instructions given to
the best of their ability. On the other hand, some women refused to try to do better.