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HEALTH DEPARTMENT,
ELMFIELD HOUSE,
HIGH STREET,
TEDDINGTON,
MIDDX.
June, 1966.
To His Worship the Mayor, Aldermen and Councillors of the
London Borough of Richmond upon Thames.
MR. MAYOR, LADIES AND GENTLEMEN,
I have the honour to present my Annual Report on the work of the School Health
Service for the year 1965.
The main aim has been to maintain the established systems of working from the
two County Authorities. A rationalization of the clinical and administrative procedures
is being undertaken all the time. One can report that the general physical condition
of our children is in good shape.
However, I would direct your attention to the pertinent comments of the Principal
School Dental Officer, that of all the children examined approximately half required
treatment. The trend of such treatment is a conservative one in that the ratio of fillings
to extractions in your service is more than thirty to one whilst the national figure is five
to one.
I feel that a child who fails to make progress at school is worthy of all the help
that we can muster. The causes of this slow development are multiple and need all
the skills of teachers, doctors, and others. Therefore the School Health Service would
like these children brought to their notice as soon as possible because the child concerned
may be suffering from either poor vision, impaired hearing, limited mental endowment,
or emotional trauma. A child who is not learning at the same pace as his fellows is
a challenge to the dedicated teacher. However, I would make the plea to all teachers
that the resources of the School Health Service are at their disposal for aid if it is
sought.
I wish to record the considerable interest and support of the Education Schools
Sub-Committee and their Chairman, Councillor Mrs. H. A. M. Champion, also that
of the Chairman of the main Committee, Alderman E. Bostock.
I wish to acknowledge the co-operation and collaboration of my colleague, Mr. W.
R. Wainwright, Chief Education Officer, and his staff.
Yours respectfully,
A. M. NELSON,
Principal School Medical Officer.
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