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Hospital was opened; this is proving of much benefit to expectant mothers
in the Borough who, previously, have had to travel long distances to obtain
maternity hospital accommodation. A further benefit at this hospital is
the provision of two emergency beds for the reception of cases which have
developed complications during confinement at home or in a private nursing
home. I am grateful to Dr. W. A. Bullough, County Medical Officer,
Essex County Council, for the help which he has given me in the provision
of maternity beds in hospitals controlled by the Essex County Council.
Attendances at Infant Welfare Centres totalled 17,060, an increase of
6,102 over the previous year.
During the year a questionnaire was sent to all mothers of children
under five to determine the necessity for establishing a Day Nursery in the
Borough. The response was such as to prove the need. A site for this
purpose has now been acquired and approval of the Ministry of Health
obtained. At the time of writing it is understood that work on the site
is about to commence.
Despite food rationing and post-war difficulties the general health of
the population has remained at a high standard. Mention must, however,
be made of the housing shortage which reflects on the psychological condition
of very many persons, more especially those who are recently married and
who are compelled to live with their parents, being unable to obtain a home
of their own. It is evident that the continued frustration to which these
persons are being subjected is having a deleterious effect on their mental
well-being. It is also apparent that the old people are having a most
difficult time, mainly owing to fuel shortage during the winter months
and to the lack of domestic help.
I should like to thank the members of the staff of the Public Health
Department for the work they have done during the year and for their
loyal co-operation. I would also mention the help T have received from
the staff of other departments and from the many voluntary workers at the
Infant Welfare Centres.
I am most grateful to the Chairmen of the Public Health, and Maternity
and Child Welfare Committees for their unfailing support.
I have the honour to be,
Mr. Mayor, Ladies and Gentlemen,
Your obedient servant,
F. G. BROWN, M.B., B.Ch., D.P.H.
27th September, 1947.
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