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An abstract from the annual report of the Consultant Psychiatrist
responsible for psycho-geriatric work at St.Clement's Day Hospital is
included in the Report. Interesting developments in community mental
health services should follow from the application of lessons learnt
there.
It would be difficult to present a report today without mentioning
the plans for local government proposed in the London Government Act 1963.
By this time next year, Stepney will form part of the new Greater London
Borough of Tower Hamlets. It is therefore unlikely that a further report
on the public health of Stepney will be prepared in this form, and in this
place. However, for the sake of the records, some report will need to bu
made if only as a 'swan song' for the Public Health Department of Stepney,
due to cease functioning on 31st March 1965, after serving the borough
since 1901. Whatever the future may hold, and no matter what geographical
boundaries are laid down for local government areas, in this part of London
there will remain enough work to occupy the minds, and challenge the ideals
of all members of councils and their officers with eyes to see. Let us
make sure we do not discard the best that was in the old way of things for
the new not yet proven.
In conclusion, I wish to thank the Chairman and Members of the
committees for their support, and the Town Clerk and other Chief Officers
of the Council for their help and assistance. To the staff of the Public
Health Department and the Assistant Administrative Officer in particular,
I extend my gratitude for their willing and loyal service in carrying out
the work of the department.
I am,
Your Worship, Ladies and Gentlemen,
Your obedient Servant,
R. W. WATTON,
Medical Officer of Health.
May, 1964.
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