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(a) families (including immigrants) who are new to the borough to explain the
local Health, Welfare and Education Services.
(b) to help and advise in cases where children are dirty and badly clothed.
(c) persistently late for school or absenteeism.
(d) slow and irresponsive for no apparent reason.
(e) frequently ill.
(f) suffer from asthma.
(g) are enuretic.
(h) do not keep appointments made at ophthalmic, ear, nose and throat, child
guidance clinic etc.
(i) present behaviour problems.
This is an exciting scheme which depends on the close co-operation of all the staff
involved with children and their families.
THE ELDERLY
A sample survey of health visitor's work during the year has again confirmed the great
need of the elderly in this borough. This sector represents 16% of the population which is about
a third higher than the national average. We have continued to expand the existing services, but
have paid particular attention to the terminally ill who were shown as needing much greater
support.
TERMINAL CARE
Whilst hospitalisation in certain cases is essential, most people under these circumstances
prefer to stay at home in their accustomed surroundings. However, the latter require very
considerable support particularly where the family is dispersed, disinterested or unable to cope.
The health visitor if she hears of these cases may play a strongly supportive role. She will work
closely with general practitioner, home nurse, home help etc., and make sure that the patient is
receiving all the necessary help available. This is extremely important not only for the patient
but also the person caring for him as often a widow, widower or daughter is too exhausted after
the death of the patient to cope with the new demands of life.
All deaths over the age of 65 are notified to the Health Department and therefore in
cases where the health visitor has not been called upon to give support during a terminal illness
she will visit to help the bereaved.
E.M.Lindsey
Superintendent Health Visitor
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