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infants, three to "Child Haven," Brentwood, the convalescent
home of the West Ham Central Mission, and one to the London
Mothers' Convalescent Home, Sunningdale.
The mothers are recommended from the various Clinics in
the Borough and by the Health Visitors; each mother is examined
prior to being sent away by the Senior Assistant Medical Officer
for Maternity and Child Welfare. A report is received from the
Matron-in-charge of each home on the discharge of the patients,
with details as to progress of mother and baby while away.
To the women who are fortunate enough to receive this help,
the holiday comes in the early weeks after confinement at a time
when it is most needed. The complete relaxation and opportunity
for rest, the freedom from worry, good diet, and the change of
surroundings, not only restore the physical health of the mothers,
but awaken their interests to new ideas and ideals.
This scheme may appear small in comparison with other
activities, but it is, nevertheless, a highly important service in
promoting the welfare of the mothers; it is appreciated not only
by the mothers themselves but equally by those who are engaged
in work at the Clinics and in visiting the homes.
During 1935 it was possible to send away under the scheme
85 mothers with their infants, of whom 68 went to "Child
Haven," and 17 to Sunningdale.
Provision of facilities for Birth Control.
In December, 1934, an arrangement was made between the
National Association for the Provision of Birth Control Clinics and
the Council wherebv patients recommended by any of the Clinic
Medical Officers as suitable cases, could be referred to the East
London Women's Welfare Centre, Burdett Road, E. This agreement
took effect on 1st January, 1935, and is proving satisfactory.
During 1935, 35 women were referred by Medical Officers of
the various Clinics for advice regarding Birth Control.
Maternity and Nursing Homes in the Borough.
There are three Nursing Homes in the Borough registered
under the Nursing Homes' Registration Act, 1927, one of these
being the Plaistow Maternity Hospital. Of the two remaining,
one receives chronic medical and senile cases, the other having
accommodation for medical, surgical and maternity cases in addition
to senile patients.
There have been no orders cancelling or refusing registration,
and no applications for exemption from registration.
The nursing home for senile patients was removed in January,
1935, to larger and more suitable premises.
The homes are inspected by the Senior Assistant Medical
Officer for Maternity and Child Welfare.
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