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The Education (Handicapped Children) Act, 1970, made provision
for the discontinuation of the procedure under Section 47 of the
Education Act, 1944 (as amended by the Mental Health Act, 1959)
for ascertaining children as unsuitable for education in school. The
Act will operate from 1st April, 1971, and will have the effect of
transferring Junior Training Centres for the Mentally Handicapped
to the Education Committee, and these will become schools for mentally
handicapped children.
It is pleasing to be able to report that during 1970 a full complement
was reached of Public Health Inspectors and Mental Welfare
Officers for the first time since 1965.
The policy of attachment of health visitors and district nurses to
group practices continued so far as this was possible within the Departmental
establishment.
Co-operation with general practitioners and the hospital service,
and with voluntary and statutory bodies, and with other Departments
of the Authority was good throughout the year. I should like to record
my appreciation of the ready help and advice which I have at all times
received from Dr. Fleck, the Director of the Public Health Laboratory,
St. George's Hospital, Tooting, and his colleagues, in dealing with
outbreaks of infectious disease.
My thanks are also due to all members of the Health Department
staff for the loyal and efficient way in which they have carried out
their duties during the year. My special thanks are due to Mr.
Cockell, the Chief Public Health Inspector, and to Mr. Atkinson, my
Chief Administrative Officer, for their contributions in connection
with the preparation of this Report.
I am also indebted to my colleagues in other Departments for
their ready help and co-operation at all times.
I have the honour to be,
Your obedient servant,
P. J. DOODY,
Medical Officer of Health.
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