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137
In the light of the subsequent recommendations of the Seebohm Committee,
it would appear that the decision to reorganise the social work
section on an area team basis was a correct one. Seebhom's proposals
relating to the organisational structure of a social service department,
envisage the setting up of area teams serving populations of about
50,000— 100,000. They recommend at least 10 — 12 social workers per
team but this would of course include child care and mental health
workers.
Population was not the only considerating in determining the team
areas, account had also to be taken of the differing patterns of need
arising from variations in age distribution, social composition and other
factors.
Additional to the team structure, it has been possible to deploy a
senior social worker to the vital task of liaising with the local voluntary
organisations and the various charities. This particular social worker,
who has worked in the Redbridge area for many years and brings a wealth
of local knowledge and experience to the post, is also concerned with
the visiting and registration of private homes for the elderly.