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Borough of Mitcham
HEALTH REPORT FOR 1942
To the Mayor, Aldermen and Councillors
Sir, Ladies and Gentlemen,
I have much pleasure in submitting my annual report for
the year 1942. Freedom from enemy action has permitted a
gradual return to more normal conditions and large numbers
of evacuees have returned requiring increased welfare and other
social services.
The birth rate has increased and the death rate has
decreased. The infant mortality rate has shown a satisfactory
decrease, and is the lowest since 1939.
In May, the Day Nursery established at Eagle House was
opened with accommodation for 65 children. A second Nursery
at Robinson Road has been approved for 50 children, which
should meet the requirements of mothers in the Colliers Wood
area of the Borough.
The welfare and ante-natal clinics have again proved satisfactory
and the number of sessions has been increased. The work
of the voluntary helpers at the welfare centres has been of the
highest value and has been greatly appreciated.
The Woodlands Maternity Home continued to give satisfactory
service, in spite of the difficulties associated with wartime
conditions.
There has been no serious outbreak of infectious disease,
but the number of notifications of Scarlet Fever has considerably