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"We consider that the mental defectives opposite the
Maternity Ward 'I' are much too near, and must have a
detrimental effect on expectant mothers and the unborn
. children, and we recommend that the mental defectives
should be. removed to another part of the Institution."
In my opinion the time has now come when separate provision
should be made elsewhere for the mental defectives and
epileptics, and the present undesirable admixture of maternity
patients and mental defectives should no longer obtain.
The proposed expansion of the Maternity Unit and adaptation
of Wards "M," "N," "O," "P" and the Male Decontamination
Station for this purpose would go a long way to meeting
an outstanding need.
In conclusion, I would like once again to thank all members
of the staff at Forest Gate Hospital who, by their close co-operation
and close working, have contributed to the wellbeing of the
patients during the year 1946.
I have also to acknowledge the ready help and co-operation
at all times of the staff of the Public Health Department, and the
Chairman and members of the Health Committee, and the
visiting Rota Committees for their kindness and consideration
shown at all times when dealing with the management and wellbeing
of the patients and staff at Forest Gate Hospital.
Further details regarding Mental Patients will be found on
page 62.
CENTRAL HOME
This Institution, which is owned and controlled by the
Social Services Committee, is used as administrative buildings
and for housing chronic sick, mental and able-bodied persons.
The number of persons admitted to the chronic sick section
during the year was 974 (males 545, females 429). There were
274 discharges (males 139, females 135), and 745 deaths (males
422, females 323).
FOREST HOUSE
Forest House is situated in the same grounds as Whipps
Cross Hospital, but is controlled by the Social Services Committee.
The accommodation provides mainly for aged men and
women, epileptics and mental patients.
During the year there were 74 admissions (males 55, females
19) and 80 discharges (males 55, females 25). There were no
deaths at this Institution.
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