View report page

49 new cases of tuberculosis were reported, there being 45 new cases
in 1950. There were 13 deaths, 2 less than in the previous year.
Housing
Although it is now more than six years since the termination of hostilities,
there are still well over 1,000 families on the Borough housing list.
Many of these people are living with 'in-laws' in overcrowded conditions.
In these cases of families living under the same roof there is seldom
statutory overcrowding, as the total number of occupants of the home is
considered in this connection, but it is sometimes found that the owner or
tenant will only allow his relatives the use of one room, and as families
increase living space becomes still more congested.
Home Nursing Service
Reference was made in my report for 1950 to the greatly increased
demands made on the Home Nursing Service. This increase has continued
during 1951, when 936 new cases were visited, a total of 15,508 visits
being made. These figures compare with 738 new cases and 13,427 total
visits in 1950. Reasons for this increase are two-fold. Firstly, new methods
of treatment by modern drugs necessitate the giving of a large number of
injections at frequent intervals; secondly, many patients who would formerly
have been in hospital are now treated at home by their own doctors. They
attend the out-patient departments of hospitals for specialised supervision.
Owing to the high cost of maintaining a patient in hospital, this home
treatment results in a considerable financial saving. Up to date it has been
possible to meet the demands on this service, but only by the employment
of part-time nurses in a temporary capacity. This proves unsatisfactory
both for the patient and doctor, as it means that there are frequent changes
of staff. Experience has shown that the only way to obtain and keep home
nursing staff is by the provision of housing accommodation, and it is to be
regretted that, so far, it has not been possible for this Council to let a house
or flat to the County Council for the use of a home nurse.
Old People's Welfare
During the year the activities of the Wanstead and Woodford Old
People's Welfare Association continued to expand. In May a new Dardy
and Joan Club was opened, making a total of four clubs in the Borough.
At the end of the year plans were in hand for the formation of a further
two clubs. 180 old persons received regular visiting in their homes. Halfday
coach outings and car rides were also arranged. I would pay tribute
to the many voluntary workers who have expended much time and energy
in various ways to further the interests of the old people and to relieve
their loneliness.
My thanks are due to the staff of the Public Health Department for
their co-operation throughout the year and also for the assistance they have
given me in the compilation of this report.
4