London's Pulse: Medical Officer of Health reports 1848-1972

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Walthamstow 1950

[Report of the Medical Officer of Health for Walthamstow]

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28
including the home life of the "in-laws" themselves who are
not always blameworthy or responsible for the present situation.
(2423 applicants registered as living with relatives).
"The relief anticipated by participation in the provision of
housing in the New Towns such as Harlow, seems to be
illusory, and no substantial early relief can be expected.
"Post-war rents are a further problem which concerns
not only the successful applicant but also the landlord who
must include in his budget, some substantial figure to cover
future maintenance of the property. Having regard to postwar
costs, the figure to be provided is almost three times that
of pre-war and must be reflected in the nett rent to be paid by
the tenant.
"Still another housing problem is that of housing on
medical grounds. Such cases continue to be restricted to
families affected by Tuberculosis. Again, pre-war, we had
rehoused all such medically recommended cases. To-day there
are still no less than 70 families on the waiting list— all
medically recommended for rehousing. The shortage of sanatorium
treatment is the probable cause of this high figure.
"In concluding this, which will be my final contribution
to the Annual Report of the Medical Officer of Health on
completion of 20 years service as Housing Manager to the
Council, I would pay tribute to all who have in any way been
associated with me in this social problem, for their patience,
tolerance and loyalty. Particularly will I remember with
pleasure the interest and keenness of my staff who always
worked as a team for the ultimate good of the service, Alderman
Mrs. Miller for many difficult years as Chairman, Members
of the Housing Committee, property owners and the well
established estate agents, particularly Messrs. Warner Estate
Ltd., who have all contributed in no small measure to our task
of housing those most in need."
(e) Rehousing of Medical Cases
During 1950, fifty-four cases claiming priority on medical
grounds, in connection with rehousing and tuberculosis, were investigated.
These cases are classified as follows:—
Class I.
(a) An urgent case on medical (clinical) grounds, and sputum
positive.